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The Inquisitor Ch. 02

By: theTCat



After the Inquisitor had left, she dressed in a sumptuous silk robe, and immediately set about searching for any possible escape. But soon, she discovered she was quite imprisoned. The walls were thick stone, and only two doors exited from it. One led back into the Inquisitor's chamber of delights, the other she knew not where, only that it was locked fast.

On an ornate sideboard was spread a wonderful feast. Fruits and breads and cheeses, delightful grapes in thick fat bunches; wines and spirits and liquors in jeweled bottles awaited her. Soft light filtered down from some unseen window high above her, so it was not dark, but not bright either. Abundant candles danced their light round the soft fabrics and textures, and glittered among many beautiful bottles of exotic perfumes.

As she waited, a new perfume touched her senses, a bouquet she had never known before. As she breathed it in deep, her head swam a bit, and her vision took on a strange clarity. Most surprising of all, was that her skin was flushed, and her nipples had grown exceedingly hard. In fact, mixed with the lovely scent, she could detect her own warm fragrance, as she felt herself become warm and wet all over again. She had never before experienced such excitement coming so soon after such pleasure. But nevertheless, there it was, hot and hungry, just as before, when she'd succumbed to the Inquisitor's machine.

Shaking her head, she cleared away the perfume's heady effects, and found herself hungry, and sampled all of the wondrous delights before her. The grapes were bursting with flavors. She sampled cheeses, and then selected adram of brilliant green liquor.

After eating, she continued her search of her new prison. In a beautifully carved wardrobe, she found the most beautiful clothes, from fancy gowns, to the sheerest of cloth, which she was sure would barely cover any part of her body. As she discovered more and more beautiful clothes, she began to wonder about her captor. Why had he not condemned her to death, as the law decreed? Why had he instead brought her here to this prison of carnal delights? Why had he laid aside such wonderful things for her? Surely this did not match the tales of his evil she had heard. 

As she made her way round her chamber, she came at last to the massive bed. She had never seen a bed so large before. She was certain it could hold six or seven people easily. Testing it, she found it the softest she'd ever felt, like sinking into a cloud of pillows and silk. It was indeed a far cry from her straw mattress in her home in the forest.

Just as the Inquisitor had said, around the room were several bookshelves. As she looked closer, she could make out titles she'd only heard whispers of. Tales of darkest Arabia, intrigues of court, novels and drawings, all filled with images of wanton lust and desire. She placed a finger on the spine of a beautifully gilded volume, but just as she was reaching for it, a low chime began to sound. Confused she searched round her chambers, trying to find its source. All the while the chime continued, low but insistent. At last, she remembered the command of the Inquisitor.

"I am finished giving in to his commands." She thought bitterly. Still the chiming continued, and she began to fear what the Inquisitor might do if she refused. Lay waste to her village, drag her to the executioner, her mind jumped wildly from horror to horror. Slowly, as she stood in her chambers, the chimes died away, leaving only profound silence once again.

"Now, I have done it." she thought. "Surely he will come and drag me to the block. Or send his guards to finally destroy my people." As tears welled up, she straightened her back. "I shall be no one's slave. If I am to be killed, so be it." She ceased her nervous pacing, and sat calmly on the bed. 

Time passed slowly, and soon she decided he must not have been watching, that her little defiance had gone unnoticed, or perhaps that wasn't the chime he had spoken of. Whatever the case, she soon began to relax and doze upon the sumptuous bed.

She awoke with a start, the sound of heavy boots and the clank of keys still echoing about her. She clutched the covers up close as the heavy door was unlatched, and swung inward. With a swirl of rustling crimson, the Inquisitor stood in, followed by a smaller, hooded figure.

They entered her chamber and stood silent for a time. She could feel the tension in the air, and stayed still in her bed, awaiting her fate. Finally he spoke very softly.

"You have disobeyed me, princess. Did I not instruct you as to what you are to do when the chime sounds?" His voice was low, but did not radiate menace as before.

"I shall be no one's slave!" she cried, determined to be brave in the face of death.

"Ah, my dear princess, I have enough slaves already. No, I have a different plan for you." he replied. "Nevertheless, you have disobeyed me, and now you will be punished,"

With this, she stood from her bed, and held her head high. "What will you do to me, my Lord. What will you do, subject me to another of your machines. I have already withstood your first. I'll..."

A wave off his hand cut her off.

In the silence that followed, she once again noticed the other figure who had entered behind the Inquisitor. Now with a small movement, he motioned toward a chair in the room, and the figure removed their cloak and sat down.

Instead of another brute guard, the princess found the hooded figure was indeed a woman. She wore a soft green gown, laced up at the front with golden ribbon, and drawn back with a lovely golden sash. Her large breasts strained at the lacings, and her nipples shone through the gossamer fabric, hard and dark.

Her hair was golden, and brocaded with a fine golden string. Her skin was soft and pale like porcelain. She had a pixie face with very full lips, and a hint of blush at the cheeks. She sat demurely in her chair, and then gazed at the princess. Her eyes were kind, but with a look of determination.

The Inquisitor continued, his face still shrouded 'neath his cloak and hood. "This is Chrysanthemum. She will be your maid. She will attend to you here."

"You spoke earlier of my machines, he continued. "No, my dear, That will not be your punishment for disobeying me. In time, you will come to think on my machines as reward. Should I reward you now for your disobedience?"

While he spoke, she realized she had not yet seen his face. With each meeting, he had always been cloaked or shrouded in shadow. Though she feared him, a strange curiosity took hold. She wondered what such a man looked like. He surely cast an impressive shadow, and from what she could see from his cloaked form, did not seem fat or oafish, nor did he seem the malevolent beast she had heard so often.

"No, my dear princess," he spoke again. "You will not receive reward. You are to be punished, and your servant will be the one to mete it out. Your robe, princess. Remove it now, and place it neatly on the bed."

Silence once again reigned as the Princess and the Inquisitor stared each other down. She stood in her silk robe, fists and jaw clenched. After what seemed an eternity, he spoke again.

"Have you forgotten your oath in the Great Hall? Do you recall the punishment the others all clamoured for? I understand among your people, honor is cherished above all else? Will you bring dishonor to your own oath?"

With that, her defenses broke, and slowly she loosed the sash, and let her robe slip from her shoulders, and fall to the floor. She did not however pick it up and place it neatly on the bed, as commanded. There she stood in the candlelight, feeling his eyes, as well as the maids, look her up and down; taking in the curves of her body, her large, dark areolas and hardened nipples, the soft triangle of hairs.

The Inquisitor took note of her willfulness, but said nothing. Instead he motioned her toward the maid Chrysanthemum. 

"For your disobedience," he began, "you will be punished by your own servant. Lie across her lap, on your stomach please."

At first, she was confused by his command, and stood still. He nodded to the maid who rose, took the princess by the hand and led her before the chair. There, the maid sat again, and guided the princess down, and across her lap, her naked skin bright against the soft green folds of the maid's dress, her round cheeks bare.

"Let her punishment commence, Chrysanthemum." he decreed, and shrank back into the shadows to a large chair and sat down, watching the two of them. From somewhere within the castle, the chimes began again

There in the chambers, her body naked to the world, she lay across the maid's legs. For a moment, nothing happened. Another moment, and another, so the princess began to believe she was merely to lie here, her backside exposed, for the Inquisitor to see. Perhaps he liked the look of her with the maid, or perhaps wanted her to be humiliated before him. But in her own mind, instead of humiliation, she felt proud and defiant. That was until the first strike came.

She gasped as the maid's hand smacked her bare bottom. Hard. And then another, and another. She was being spanked! The maid sat calmly with the princess 'cross her lap, and she was spanking her. 

Very soon, her bottom began to smart. Her cheeks burned with each spank, and grew warmer and hotter. Her flesh blushed with shame, and tears burned in her eyes, but she would not let them fall. All the while, the maid's hand spanked her bottom, till her cheeks glowed red and hot. And all the while, the chimes tolled.

To her surprise, in addition to shame and anger, she began to become accustomed to the maid's spanking. Her smacks were indeed hard, and stung a bit, but were not filled with malice. Slowly, as her spanking continued, she began to anticipant the smacks, and began not to flinch when they came.

As her bottom burned, the felt herself growing aroused by the maids hand on her, almost yearning or the moment when the next spank came. Every so often, her hand, or fingers or palm, would find a spot previously untouched, or perhaps brush against her lush opening. Only for the flicker of a moment, but long enough to send a spark of electric desire running through her.

At last, the Inquisitor spoke again. "Enough!" and at once the spanking ceased and the chimes died away. The princess once again stood, her poor ass smarting and red. Her cheeks flamed with humiliation, but she managed to hold her head high once again, and regard the maid, and then the Inquisitor, who still sat in his darkened chair.

He rose and spoke. "Now, must I instruct you once again as to what you are to do when the chime sounds? Your punishment this evening from your maid is merely a taste. Do I need to imagine new trials for you, or will you uphold your oath?"

"I will, my lord... As you command." Her voice quavered, and though still defiant, the thought of dishonoring her word rang hollow in her mind.

"Very good." said the Inquisitor. Addressing the maid, he instructed her to bathe and clean the princess, and dress her once again, before seeing her to bed. With a rustle of his cloak, he left the chambers. Behind him, the princess could hear the heavy click set the lock on her prison's door.

- - -

Once the Inquisitor had gone, all that remained was the princess and the maid. At last she spoke. "The master wants you cleaned and bathed, and cleaned you shall be. Follow me, m'lady"

And with that, the maid rose and went to a far wall, and turned a iron lamp-stand set into the stone, From below the floor, a clank of machinery could be heard, and with a heavy grating noise, a portion of the wall slid inward onto a new room.

Inside, the new room was bathed in orange afternoon glow. On one wall was a large polished gold mirror, housed within a curled gilt frame. The floor was soft white marble, streaked with pinks and greens, and into the floor was sunk a huge deep pool, filled with water. Steam rose in little puffs from its surface and all around the room were more bottles of perfumes and scented oils. Light streamed in from a lovely stained glass window above, bearing an image of a forest glade. To one side was a low partition, and behind it what appeared to be a sort of stone chair. Rushing water could be heard gurgling under it. 

"No more chamberpots, m'lady," said the maid, noticing the princess' gaze. "The water rushing underneath takes it away."

"Now, my princess, you must be bathed. Surely your poor behind is still stinging. I'm sorry I had to strike you, but I must do as my master bids. Please, enter the pool, and I shall make it better."

The maid surveyed the oils and selected a few as the princess sank down into the very warm water. The maid poured scents of orange blossoms and strawberries into the water, and soon, the pool was surrounded by a warm, beautiful aroma. Then the maid began to loose her hair from its brocade, and all at once it spilled down golden across her back. Her small fingers slowly undid the lacings of her gown, and she let it slip down behind her, as the princess had done earlier.

She stood before the princess in the pool, her breasts rising and falling with her breath, and 'tween her legs was no dark triangle of hair, but instead was bare and smooth as silk.

"Do I please you, my princess?" purred the maid. "If I am not becoming, another can be chosen." 

The princess breathed deep the fragrance, and slowly shook her head, and held out her hand for the maid. She watched her long legs as the maid slipped down into the pool with her. The princess was surprised to find herself looking down through the warm waters at the maid's round breasts. Deep within her, she felt a hunger rising for the maid's touch, not a spank as before, but a more tender caress.

As the maid prepared the soaps and oils, she allowed the princess to look on her body without shame or inhibition. In truth, she enjoyed the princess's eyes on her, could hear the princess' breath quicken. Slowly, she took a large sponge, and sank it deep into the water, filling and softening it. Then, just as slowly, she slid to the princess, and began to softly bathe her. The soapy sponge slid over the princess' shoulders, and down her back. Up her arms, and along her legs, Over her breasts, and soft on her ass, still tender from her recent lesson.

After a while, the sponge was abandoned for fingers and lips. The maid had the princess move up upon a step, her breasts coming clear of the water, and up to the maid's hungry mouth. The maid suckled the princess, soft at first, her tongue flicking over the nipple, then curling around it to suck it once again.

The princess gasped as her arousal began to mount, arching her back so the maid's mouth could find better purchase. Often the maid's lips left the princess's hardened nipples, to find her mouth, open and waiting, their tongues flicking out to slide against the other's. Beneath the water, the maid's hand slid down to find the princess' legs spread, and her sex ready to receive her.

Slowly the maid's fingers began to rub gently on her. Her soft touch gliding along, up and down, around in small circles, as the princess began to softly moan. Her hips bucked against the maid's touches. Gently, a finger slid into her, and slipped about, finding the princess' sex eager for more. Another finger, now two together as a rod, and then, oh, a third, her pussy stretching deliciously around the maid's fingers. The maid's fingers began to slide in and out of the princess, who's moans began to deepen, as she ground herself harder onto the maid's caressing hand.

Soon, her juices and the water mixing so smoothly, another finger slid in, nearly causing the princess to cry out in passion. The maid's fingers, now very thick inside her, slid in and out, and all at once, it was too much to contain, as climaxed rolled over the princess like a stormcloud. But the maid's fingers would not relent. She pulled the princess closer to her, as her fingers slid in and out, deeper and deeper into the princess, her own breasts coming free from the water, hard nipples bobbing gently near the princess' eager mouth.

The princess seized the maid's breast, and suckled her nipple hard. Much to her surprise, warm, sweet milk streamed into her mouth, accompanied by a low moan from the maid, Chrysanthemum. Surprised by herself, the princess continued to nurse, drinking the maid's milk greedily, her tongue flicking amidst the hot streams. 

"That's it, my princess... come for me!" she cried. The maid's fingers continued to drive into her as the princess sucked and sucked on the maid's breast. A new flood of orgasm gripped them both, and once subsided, the maid slowly removed her slick fingers.


After their breath returned, the maid continued her soft bathing of the princess, making sure to gently scrub each and every inch. The princess' face burned with embarrassment, but the maid soothed her saying, "All is well, m'lady. Do not furrow your brow, nor be ashamed of the pleasure I gave you. In truth, I am to be one of your instructors."

"The master has great plans for you, m'lady. I have much to teach you; how to give pleasure, and receive it; how to hold on to the crest of a wave of pleasure, and then allow it to crash into you. I will instruct you on how to please a woman, in ways you've never dreamed of." 

"But not tonight... you have had a very full day." With these last words, a sly smile crossed her face, as she gently stroked one of the princess' nipples, 

"For now it is time for bed."

The Inquisitor Ch. 03



And with that, she drew the princess up from the languid waters, and dried her all over with a soft cloth, before drying herself. In a moment, she retrieved new silk robes for the princess, and a lovely green one for herself. She clothed the princess, and guided her to the mirror, and began to softly brush the princess' hair, in long smooth strokes.

As the princess allowed her hair to be smoothed, she regarded her reflection, as well as the maid's, in the golden mirror. She liked the look of the maid's soft hands, at times gliding along the silk of her robe, sometimes brushing her tender nipples beneath the sheer fabric. The princess found she relished the woman's touches, and knew she would not soon forget them.

Once readied, the maid led the princess back to her chamber, and bade her slide into bed. Then she slid in bed next to her, and wrapped the princess in her arms. Though the princess still struggled with her thoughts, she felt very comforted by the maid's embrace, her soft skin next to hers. 

'Neath the covers, she felt herself getting aroused again, the feeling of the maid's hands cupping her breasts, but she quickly stamped it down. Her body was her own, and she worked hard to reign it's racing desires in, though deep down, her most fervent wish was to grasp the maid's beautiful breast and once again drink her sweet milk.

Instead, she decided on conversation.

"How is it, Chrysanthemum, that you came to be here? Why does a maiden such as yourself still have such sweet milk? Why do you serve the Inquisitor so faithfully? How is it that you have no dark hairs down below? What has happened to them?"

A flood of questions, and to each, the maid gave a soft reply.

"I was captured many years ago, and made slave to the household of a horrible nobleman. I hardly remember things from that time, and the ones I do, I'll not repeat. In time, I came to be in the household of the King, and was nursemaid for his child," she hesitated, then... "and to my own which was lost." she softly added. 

"That is how I have milk. I fell under the eye of the master while nursing the young one, and he took me under his tutelage. Do not mistake me, m'lady, he harmed me not. As he will not harm you. Instruct you, yes, he will do that, but never to harm."

Giggling, Chrysanthemum softly stoked the princess' dark and luxurious hair, curling it round her fingers, entwining it with her own golden locks. Growing playful, the maid's hand slipped below the covers and the princess' robe, and played among her dark soft hairs below. "Soon," she said, "These hairs will be gone. I will make you as smooth as I am."

As she said this, the princess was surprised to find her own hand slipping below the covers, and finding its way within the maid soft robe. Softly, her fingers explored the maid's leg and belly, all the while, traveling closer to her smooth opening. When her fingertips had barely touched the maid, she found her wet and warm. As her fingers began to slip about, the maid began to softly moan.

"Yes, my princess... touch me... oh, yes, feel how wet, my princess... touch me there." she purred. Soon she unfolded to the princess' exploring fingers, and their tips found her button rising to meet them.

"Oh yes, my love, slide one in... oh softly... Not too fast at first.... That's it... feel how I grasp at your finger inside me... oh yes, my lady."

"I... I want to suckle you some more," whispered the princess, turning so her face met the maid's. "Please, let me have some more." 

Chrysanthemum grasped her own breast, and directed it into the princess' waiting mouth, squeezing softly, until sprays of milk shot forth, and the princess greedily drank it down. All the while, the princess stroked the maid, petting it, sliding a finger in, and then out.

"Ah, that's lovely... yes, my love," she whispered. "I can take another... oh yes, mmmm." She moaned as the princess slid in another... "Oh yes, more,... another!" as the princess obliged. The maid's other hand slipped below the covers and began furiously working her clitoris, as the princess' fingers slid in again and again.

"Oh! Yes m'lady....  Ah! Oh, take your fingers, and make them all meet, like you were grasping a flower stem.... Oh now slow, take their point, and slowly... oh yes!" She arched her head back as ever so slowly, the princess' hand slid into the maid. Gently she withdrew it some, and slid further in, the maid's walls quivering round her hand. The maid's moans grew deeper, as she grasped the princess' wrist, pushing her hand deeper in.

"Oh YES!" she cried, as she began to come around the princess' hand, her own hand still vigorously rubbing her clit, while the princess hungrily sucked at her breast. "Oh, feel me.... Oh yes!"

Gradually, Chrysanthemum regained her breath, and lay holding the princess, who had now drunk her fill, softly stroking her back. "That was wonderful, my lady. Now, we must sleep! I cannot withstand another such as that. And you must regain your strength as well. The master will have more for you soon, to be sure."



The Inquisitor Ch. 04



The princess awoke to find herself alone. All was quiet in her chambers, and there was no sign of the maid but a soft lingering perfume where her head had lain. Surprisingly, the morning found her feeling refreshed and alive, where before she had longed for flight.

On the sideboard was another glorious meal, which she set about devouring. She found she was rather famished. Four climaxes in one night will do that to a girl, she thought. Though she had known pleasures before, never had they been this strong or intense.

Even as she stood before the buffet, he legs still trembled a bit. With a moment's thought, she could recall each sensation, and as her mind touched on each, a shiver ran down her.

She thought over the events of the day past, how afraid she'd felt sitting in her cell, How proud and defiant she'd felt standing before the court, if not just a little aroused. The shame she'd felt touching herself before the Inquisitor, all the while his hungry eyes on her, and his cock growing hard beneath his robes. The Inquisitor's machine; how she'd feared it at first, only to be shocked by how much it pleasured how own body. 

How mortifying to be spanked like a child before him, and oh, how softly her punisher had soothed her. These thoughts she brushed away, and found a sweet roll she had overlooked.

After breakfast, she indeed felt refreshed. She strolled among the perfumes and scented oils, finally selecting one with a soft hint of musk. Looking through her new clothes, she found a lovely indigo gown, not tight, but form fitting and flowy. After dressing, she busied her self, discovering what other secrets her chamber hid. She tried all of the lampstands, iron rings, loose stones, but found no other hidden rooms beside the one with the deep pool.

She did find all sorts of trunks and chests, each filled with spices, and oh! jewels! She plunged her hands arm deep into a chest of beautiful gems, and lets streams of stones run down through her fingers. On tables she found other lovely items, golden hairbrushes and pins, and a large trunk bearing a strange lock. Try as she might, she found she could not open the trunk, or even guess as to its contents. When she tried to lift it, she found it was heavy, and when shaken, made a sound not unlike the strange long devices the Inquisitor has used in his machine.

Frustrated, she abandoned the chest, an instead scanned the books which lined her shelves. At last she found the book she'd nearly pulled the night before, and slid it out. On its cover was writing she'd never seen before, and once open, found woodcuts and illuminated pages showing scenes she'd never imagined. 

Everywhere images of men, women, with each other, by themselves, together in great masses, long cocks jutting out, breasts erect. As she paged through the book, often her hands stopped at a particular position or activity she found intriguing, absorbing the images like water.

She'd been looking through the book for some time, when she noticed a new sound. Not so much a new sound, but one she now knew. The chime. Somewhere in the castle, the Inquisitor had thrown the chime, and now it beckoned for her.

She closed the book and returned it to its place, before looking all round her chambers, searching for some window, or peephole. Somehow, the Inquisitor was watching somewhere. He had to have been to know she'd disobeyed him before. But she could find none. She debated whether she was even being observed, but truthfully, she did not care for another spanking. Besides, she had made an oath, and she would not break it again.

Slowly as the chime died away princess began to slowly unlace her bodice. She softly laid down on her bed, her top open, her full breasts standing out. Ever so softly, her hand began to gently brush her nipple, first the right, then the left, before her other hand did the same. Her fingertips caressed and pulled her nipples, feeling them grow hard beneath her touch. Her mind flashed upon her bath with the maid, and she felt them grow even harder. Her tongue remembered the taste, and with it, she felt herself grow wet.

She pressed herself into more of a sitting position, and using her hand, raised her nipples to her mouth, sucking each in turn, 'til they were stiff and aching. Her tongue remembered the taste of the maid's, and she grew wetter still. 

She left her left to attend her breast, and with her right hand, began to rub her very wet sex. She was surprised to find how aroused she was. Somehow, she was being watched, and that thought aroused her even more. Soon, her fingers were no longer playing, they were sliding into herself. One two, three, she felt shudders begin to rise up, and her hand abandoned her breast to find her clitoris waiting for it.

Her hips began to buck as she grew more and more excited. Soon, her two and three fingers had become four, and then five, as she tried what she had discovered with the maid, but found it was nearly too much, and had to settle for four. Even so, she came strong and long, as her fingers made sloshing noises as they slid inside of her.

As her tremors subsided, she surprised her self again, by licking each finger, savouring her own taste, until they were clean. She blushed at her actions, and then she suppressed a giggle. 

Drawing her breasts back into her gown, she laced it again, and smoothed the fabric. No sooner was she finished than she heard boot-heels in the corridor, and keys at the lock. The heavy door swung open, and in strode her captor.

"Good morning, princess," he said. "I am glad to see you had a restful night. And I am most pleased to find you in a more agreeable mood."

Though he still wore the cloak and hood, a small ray of light alighted on his ckeekbone, and she could see one bright and shiny, but very dark eye. She thought even that he might be smiling, but just as quick, he turned away with a rustle of cloth.

"Yes, my lord. I will not break my oath again. I swore to do what was commanded of me, and if it is in my power, I shall do it." she said triumphantly.

"Excellent, my dear." He said. "Tell me, what do you think of your rooms here?"

"A treasure-filled prison is still a prison, my lord. Am I to be held here in these rooms, hidden from the sun and trees forever?

"Certainly not!" he exclaimed. "You are still my prisoner, but I will hold you to your oath. You may leave these rooms when I choose, but you must swear not to try to escape." 

"Chrysanthemum will accompany you, and show you the entire castle if you wish. But always remember your promise. Do you agree?"

"Yes, my lord." she replied. Somehow, escape had slipped from the forefront of her mind. Though she could not yet admit it to herself, she had grown rather fond of the pleasures this place provided.

"Very well." he said. "Tomorrow, in the afternoon, you may walk with your maid, and she will instruct you about the ways of this castle and its goings-on. You are not to speak with anyone you may encounter; instead, you shall act as though you do not speak the language. Do you understand?"

"Yes, my lord."

For a time, he was quiet and thoughtful, then turning to her, he asked, "What did you think of my machine?"

She did not answer for a moment, and as he turned to her, she noticed he wore a cleverly wrought mask, inlaid with filigrees of gold over much of his face. The only portions not covered were his mouth and strong jaw, with a small beard, sprinkled with a few greys, surrounded his mouth and lips.

Surely this man could not be all that much older than she. Something about his lips tugged at the corners of her mind, but she could not grasp it, and just as quickly it was gone. She began to inquire about his mask, but then thought better of it.

"The machine..." she began. "I was afraid at first. But then once it began to strike its tones, I found myself wanting it. Wanting to feel what that note would feel like inside of me."

"I see. And the secondary device? The one that came after the biggest was inside of you"

At this, she blushed, remembering the massive orgasm she'd experience with the smaller cock toning inside her ass, while the huge one pumped away inside of her, the two devices filling her as never before.

"I tried to resist it, my lord. But it was so insistent. Slowly, and even beyond my control, I let it enter me, and once there, it filled me up so. I've never experience pleasure there before, my lord, and even now am shocked by myself."

"That is good, my princess." He was quiet for a moment, and then, "And the maid.... Does she please you?"

"Oh yes my lord, even when she was punishing me. More and more, I find myself in utter surprise, finding myself gaining pleasure where I would have only thought shame."

"I am most glad to hear it, my dear," he replied. "Would it please you to sample another of my devices?" He turned to face her and fixed her with his blazing eyes.

Now it was her turn to be thoughtful but at the last, surprising herself again, she replied "Yes my lord! It would please me very much!"

He took her hand and led her from her chambers and into the machine room. There were more torches lit, and they cast flickering shadows round the vast space. In addition to the machine she had just experienced, there were many, many more. 

Wheeled contraptions, gears, tables, braces, and now instead of horror at their sight, she felt a strange curiosity. What pleasures would each of these machines illicit? What new exquisite sexual treats had he in store for her?

He led her to a small padded table, about the size of a stool, only longer, with attachments to one end, and a pillowed rest at the other. There he instructed her to remove her gown, which she quickly lid. 

"Hear me, princess," he began. "Its seems you have learned your lesson. You did as commanded when the chime sounded. This pleases me very much. When I am pleased, I grant special rewards. Though you will learn to think of each of your experiences with my machines as reward, today, we shall use a softer touch."

"Please, lie down on this table, and place your feet into these." He motioned toward two step-like contraptions mounted on the attachments to one end. Each had a small strap to be buckled around the ankles.

She hesitated only a moment, before climbing onto the padded table, and placing her feet as he'd shown her. Gently, he fastened the straps round her ankles. As he turned a crank, her legs were spread wider and wider.

As she lay there, legs spread wide, she could feel him gazing at her exposed sex. Again, her body reacted to his eyes upon her, and knew she was still quite wet from her recent lesson of the chimes, She grew wetter remembering the pleasure she'd felt touching herself, knowing he was somehow watching.

"Very good, my princess." he purred. "I want you to push down with your feet on their braces, one at a time, first the right, then left, as if you would walk up a wall."

Very confused, but still willing to try, she pushed down with her right foot, and to her surprise, it sank down, causing her left to be pushed up. When she then pushed the left down, the right leg pushed back up. The clockwork and gears moved slowly, but their action was smooth, and soon she found a rhythm, legs cycling up and down.

In her mind, she did not understand what purpose this motion would serve. It certainly did not give her very much pleasure, though it was not terribly straining either. Perhaps he just liked watching the way it made her wet orifice move. But with that thought, the Inquisitor threw another lever, and a new gear engaged.

From underneath her rose a great wheel, spinning in time to the motions of her legs. Mounted round the wheel were many peacock feathers. As her legs pistoned up and down, the wheel's feathers drew closer and closer, until they came to just barely touch her sweet downy triangle and brush down between her legs. As her legs worked, the feathers kept brushing. As the feathers tickled her pussy, the Inquisitor threw another lever, and two more revolving feathered wheels descended from above, 'til their feathers gently stimulated her erect nipples in time as well.

Once all the wheels were synchronized, their rhythm became like a pulse, the feathers tickling and touching, again and again. Gradually, she could feel her excitement mount, as the wheels inched closer, brushing and tickling harder on her exposed secret spots. From somewhere within the machine, low tones issued up through the padded cushion, adding vibration to the feather's caresses.

Faster her legs pumped, and faster brushed the feathers. Soon the feathers between her legs became soaked with her, and they flapped against her clit and pussy with a wet sound. More than anything, the sound sent her over the edge, and a quivering orgasm rocked her.

The machine began to slow, and her legs finally came to rest as she lay panting on the padded table. The Inquisitor freed her ankles from their restraints, and she stood on shaky legs. She had not realized how much energy the machine had taken, but it had given her a very different experience that the double-cocked machine had before.

Taking her hand, he led her once again to her chambers, where she found the maid Chrysanthemum waiting. Addressing the maid, the Inquisitor commanded the princess be washed and cared for, and then be shown the castle.

Turning to the princess, he reminded her of her rules when out of her chambers.

"Remember, my princess. You will speak to no one. If questioned, your maid shall answer for you, You will act as if you do not speak the language, but you will be courteous and respectful."

"In addition, from now on, you shall wear this."

From within his robes, he produced a small thin necklace. Its band was white silk, and from it dangled a small round moonstone pendant. "You will wear this at all times, even when your maid bathes you. You may not remove it without my permission. Do you understand?"

"Yes my lord." she replied. He raised the tiny necklace, and Chrysanthemum clasped it at the nape of her neck. It fit tight, but did not choke. The Inquisitor surveyed the princess, still naked and flushed from her exertions on his machine, wearing only her ribbon necklace.

What seemed a smile crossed his lips. Without another word, he turned on his heel, leaving only the princess and the maid, alone once again.



The Inquisitor Ch. 05



"Come my lady," purred the maid. "You are trembling and cold. And you walk unsteady on your feet. Ah, I see you have experienced his feather machine." she said with a knowing smile. "Hurry, let us get you warmed again, and I shall show you the castle."

Taking her hand, she led the princess to her bed, and bade her lay down. "I thought he said you were to wash me..." the princess began.

"That he did, my princess, but today I will use no sponge to clean you." She climbed into the bed at the princess's feet, and ran her soft hands up from her feet. She spread the princess's legs as her hands rose, until she was spread just as she was before the Inquisitor on his machine. "Ah, my love... I see his feathers have made you very, very wet. Lie still now, and I shall clean you with my mouth."

And with that, the maid's lips sank to meet the princess's flesh. Soft kisses, and long licks. Her tongue slid up her wet slit, and back down. It traveled back up again to find the princess's clit, already swollen and tender from the feathering machine. Her tongue wrapped round it, and sucked it strong. Wetness gushed from the princess as her maid lapped at her sex. She relished the long wet tongue slathering against her, the maid's fingertips stretching her open. Into her slid the maid's tongue, warm and pointed, and oh my! so long! It went deep into her and flicked about, only to withdraw and plunge into her again.

The princess came and came as the maid fucked her with her mouth. But the maid would not relent, the princess's moans exciting her more. She stretched the princess open once again, her tongue exploring her walls, and probing her wet opening. The maid parted the princess's cheeks, and her long tongue licked at her tiny hole. As her fingertips had stretched her pussy open to allow her tongue access, so they now did with her ass. The tongue slipped and prodded it, until it was sopping, before slowly sliding her finger into the princess's ass. 

"OHHH!" screamed the princess as the finger slid deep into her. As the maid began to fuck her ass with the finger, her tongue lashed the princess's dripping clit. The princess came hard, her ass tightening around the finger, her juices soaking the maid's mouth. Slowly, Chrysanthemum withdrew the finger, and smiled up at the princess. Her pretty face shone with the wetness of her princess's pleasure. 

"I'm afraid, my princess, my mouth has only made you even wetter. I believe you may need to be bathed." whispered the maid.

She led the princess through the secret wall where she found the pool again filled with steamy water. There, the maid bathed her once again, using soft sponges, and sweet fragrances. Their fingers played 'neath the water, and the maid allowed the princess to again nurse from her full breasts, first one and then the other. As the princess suckled, the maid whispered soft words of love.

"Ah, yes, my love.... Drink from me. Oh, suck harder, oh suckle my nipple." She moaned as the princess's mouth pulled harder and harder. When the princess had drunk her fill, the maid told confessed just how pleasurable her sucking was.

"You are the first the master has allowed to drink from my milk. He will allow no other to touch me, and has told me many times I can now only give my milk to you. Before you discovered them, they were so full and sore. I have not nursed in some time, and he would only allow me to suckle my own self in his presence. If I milked them at any other time.... well" she hesitated. "He would punish me."

"Punish you!" cried the princess.

"Oh no, my lady," said the maid, resting together with the princess in the warm water, "You misunderstand. His punishments are not beatings. He would punish me by not allowing me to touch myself, or making me service him in different ways. Sometimes he would use his machines on me, but I find them so pleasurable, they don't seem like punishment"

"He would watch you as you suckled your self?" asked the princess, remembering the Inquisitor commanding her to lick and suck her own breasts. The memory brought again the instant warmth between her legs. Remembering him watching her when she first arrived at these chambers of delight, she now had a new image to add. The thought of the maid squirming on her own bed, breast to her mouth, suckling herself before him, excited her again. She tried for the maid's nipple again but the maid stopped her, gently telling her she must wait, or her poor nipples would become too sore.

Instead, she cuddled next to the princess in the water, and the sat quiet for a time.. At last, the princess asked "Have you ever seen him... without his mask?"

"Oh yes, m'lady. Many times." Chrysanthemum replied, but then grew very serious, looking the princess dead in the eye. "But hear me, my lady. You must never... never try to remove his mask!"

"But why? Is he disfigured? Grotesque?" But the maid would answer no further, saying only that he would be furious with the princess, and would brook no intrusions.

Curiosity reigned in the princess's mind, but she let the subject rest. A new thought occurred to her.

"Have you ever seen his... manhood?" she asked the maid. "I saw him harden beneath is robes when he was punishing me, but he did not bring it into the light."

"Oh, yes my love. I have seen it. And touched, and sucked it. I know it well. It is large and beautiful, and strangely, he is cut like the Jews, so it has a great purple head."

At this the princess gasped. After a moment she asked, "You have suckled it? I could never do that."

"Oh but you will, princess." The maid replied. "He will teach you, and soon your mouth will seek out what he likes. Remember how I told you he would not let me suckle my breasts or milk them except in his presence? Once when I was permitted to suckle, he lay near me, watching, his hand stroking it. As I had one breast to my lips, he got to his knees, and pulled upon his cock, until it shot forth onto my other breast. He then bade me lick it clean, and lick him from my breast as well. Though I did not like the taste, my milk sweetened it, and I found the whole encounter filled very pleasurable.."

The princess's brow furrowed, but she said nothing. Then she asked "And you pleasure him often?"

"I pleasure him when he commands, my love. But I am denied now. He will not permit me to have it any longer. I may only pleasure myself, when my own chimes sound... and pleasure you, of course. I may not have it inside me again, until he permits me, or until you ask for me to join in with you." With this, she looked away, face clouded, but in a moment, returned to the princess. It was only then she noticed the maid wore a necklace very similar to her own, only the maid's was soft green, and bore a beautiful green stone.

"Come my princess. The master will be displeased if we stay abed all day. Come, leave these waters and be dried. We have much to do, a castle to explore!" 



The Inquisitor Ch. 06



The maid had soon dressed the princess, selecting a soft, deep blue velvet gown, with intricate lacing at the scalloped bust. She did up the princess's long dark locks in a golden threaded coiffure. To her face she brushed soft powders, and adorned her with lovely fragrances from the jeweled bottles. To her ears she fastened beautiful white gems, skillfully wrought in silver web. Onto her fingers she slid lovely rings from the treasure-laden trunks. To the princess's lips, she rubbed fresh strawberries, turning them shiny and plump and red. The maid could not resist, hungrily kissing all of the juices from them, and had to start again.

At last, she stood back from the princess, and surveyed her adornment. "Bon." she said, satisfied with her work. Searching through the gowns, she found one suitable for herself, this time a more brilliant green hue, embroidered with golden filigrees. Though the princess tried to help the maid with her gown, she became entranced with her body, fingers playing along the maid's skin, until the maid had to playfully jump away, if only to finish reigning her breasts into the bodice. Giggling, she lightly kissed the princess, scolding her in jest; telling her she must wait.

The Inquisitor had not locked the chamber's heavy door, and together the princess and the maid stepped lightly through the chamber or delightful machines, soon finding the passage to the great winding stair. 

As they climbed round and round, the princess remembered the fear she had felt descending these very stairs. Had it only been a day since she had been imprisoned here? Two? Time seemed to have lost its relevancy, and the princess cast a glance o'er her shoulder toward the rooms they had left. Her fear of the machines and torture had somehow been replaced now with a hunger for knowledge, a desire to sate her curiosity.

Soon they had reached the summit of the stair, and the maid led the princess through passages and corridors, until at last she stood blinking in the sun. They were standing in a lush courtyard, surrounded by high, stone walls, dotted with windows, and the oddly shaped arrowlets she had glimpsed within the Great Hall. Somewhere within was the chambers in which she had stood, awaiting the executioner. What a strange twist of fate to have brought her here, adorned with gems and diadems, a cowering prisoner reborn.

The garden was filled with fruit trees, all heavy laden with fruits of all sorts. Grape vines hung thick with grapes over trellises, and beautifully fragrant flowers shouted with blooms. Iridescent blue peacocks strolled about the grounds, at times sounding their haunting "oorwah, oooorwaah!" call. One of the largest had his tail fully unfurled, it's stiff feathers dancing with a shaky hiss. The great-eyed feathers reminded the princess of the Inquisitor's tickling machine, and she blushed despite herself, 

They strolled through the courtyard garden, stopping to inhale the different fragrances, the maid naming each; explaining pollens and bees and roots and stems. In places there were gurgling fountains, the tranquil sounds of rippling waters echoing though the green.

As they walked, the princess surveyed the layout of the castle, at times letting her fingertips run along the grey stone walls, feeling them hum with hundreds of memories. She discovered the courtyard was walled on all four sides, their tops crenellated with battlements, to form a large square. At opposing ends rose two great round towers, their bases creating intruding ovals into the square space of the lush courtyard.

One tower soared high into the clouds, its spire topped with a golden dome, with golden inlays spiraling down it's sides. The ribbons formed a sort of design which the princess could not understand.

In stark relief to the golden tower, it's opposite was cold and stark. Though it rose to a great height, it bore no golden decoration, only bleak grey stone. At its peak was a large battlement, enclosed at its roof by what looked like spikes. Set into the stone beneath the battlements was a great clock.

Catching the direction of the princess' gaze, the maid explained.

"The Tower of Gold." she began, gesturing toward the bright spire. "Long ago, it was the King's Observatory. I am told it once held a device that could behold the moon and planets. I have never seen it, and I often wonder if it still exists. The golden ribbons you see once could chart the stars, and mark the days, but their secret is lost to us."

"Now it serves as the Queen's chambers." with this her eyes darkened, and she said no more.

"The Dark Tower." she continued, now directing the princess to gaze upon the opposite. "The great cell of our imprisoned king." A deep note of sadness sounded in her voice. Though the princess pressed the maid with questions, her only replay was "I will not speak on it here."

"Come," the maid exclaimed, quickly brightening. "There is much more to see. Much of the castle lies below ground, this portion here made to withstand any siege. Its walls are very thick. See the arrow ports there, and there, many invaders have been repelled by our bowmen, and on those battlements lie great trebuchets. Great machines that hurl giant stones upon an enemy's advance. The fountains bring fresh water from deep beneath us, and the castle has many hordes."

The maid led the princess inside; through more winding corridors and passageways. They toured the great underground storehouses, rooms with great casks of wine, stables with fine horses. She showed the princess the armories, filled with terrifying weaponry, great galleries lined with suits of armor. She revealed gorgeous tapestries to the princess, reciting the tales and legends they depicted.

They passed many guardsmen and courtiers, and though none fully bowed to Chrysanthemum and her charge, they solemnly declined their head to them. As they wandered, the princess caught sight of other necklaces like her own, but each band of silk differing from another. None, however, bore gems of any kind, such as hers and that of the maid. To her surprise, she felt a twinge of green jealousy toward the other women bearing silk ribbons. The maid noticed her consternation, but said nothing.

The sun had already sunk low by the time they returned to the courtyard. The princess's tired feet ached from treading the stones floors, and her maid promised to anoint them with sweet oils when they returned to her chambers, As they stood in the afternoon light, the great clock chimed the hour. As it tolled, the princess felt a strange warmth between her legs, could feel her excitement rise as the hour counted. Confused, the princess brushed it away. Rounding a corner, the maid let out a small gasp and stopped short, before quickly dropping into a low, bowing curtsy. Her hand shot to the princess's, and quickly pulled her down to match her bow. Just then, a tall woman strode up to them.

"Good morrow, Chrysanthemum." spoke the woman.

"Good morrow my queen." whispered the maid, eyes still averted.

The Queen! The princess was caught struck dumb as she took in the woman before her. She was exceedingly tall. She wore a breathtaking purple gown, gold ribbons lacing it's front. Where there should have lain an undergarment, 'neath the Queen's laced bodice shone only bare skin. Her beautiful breasts seemed as though they would burst the lacings at any moment. The princess could see deep shadow between the large globes. Her hair was so blonde it neared the color of silver. Her hands were long, and her face was devastatingly beautiful. But her eyes were cold and merciless, her smile not quite genuine. Round her neck was a silk band, just like her own, only black as jet, and from it dangled a golden key.

"Arise, my dears." said the Queen, her long hand offered to the maid Chrysanthemum, who took it gingerly and rose. 

"And who is this charming lady you have with you my dear?" she said, turning her gaze to the princess, eyes surveying her flesh with a hungry look. The Queen's eyes caught sight of the silk ribbon and moonstone she wore.

Her eyes flew wide; a look of sheer rage clouding the Queen's face, but a moment later was gone completely, replaced by an even wider, toothy smile. Her eyes danced across the princess's body once again, as the Queen drew the maid closer, her fingertips reaching up to finger the lovely green stone of Chrysanthemum's necklace.

Without a word, the Queen turned on her heel and glided away. The maid quickly grabbed the princess's hand and guided her back into the corridor. Down and down they climbed, until at last they had reached the princess's chambers.

Once inside, the maid let out a long breath. Though the princess tried to press her with questions, she would not answer for quite some time. At last, she spoke.

"An evil omen this day hides. The Queen, she has seen your band. She knows the Inquisitor has spared you from the axe. She knows he has taken you for his own!" she cried.

"But what has happened?" asked the princess. "I saw many women bearing a similar band on our walk today."

"No, my lady. Those bands belong to the Queen. Those are her servants, her ladies in waiting. All have tasted the machines, but they are bred for only her! They wait for the Queen to call for them, to attempt to satisfy her incredible lust. At the time of the High Moon, the Queen's chambers are filled with naked, quivering flesh, all groping, probing, juices wet and slick..." The maid's voice faltered as a wave of pleasure coursed up from her smooth opening. 

Recovering, she turned to the princess once again. "But these," she said, touching her own band, "these inlaid with powerful jewels, the Queen knows from whence they came!"

"There is dark magick at work here, my lady." She said low, and would say no more. She left the princess and busied herself about the princess's chambers tiding, folding and re-folding. Try as she might, the princess could not coax another word from the maid.

The hours passed, and the princess selected another book of lust from the shelves and set about reading. 

Later that evening, their master visited. He closed the massive door behind him, and turned the lock. Chrysanthemum came to his side immediately, and clung to him like an amorous cat. She whispered to him, and the princess guessed she was recounting the story of their meeting of the Queen.

The Inquisitor listened to the maid's whispered tale, but said nothing. At long last he turned to the princess and spoke. "So, my princess, the Queen knows of you. She has seen that I have marked you as mine own. That cannot be changed now. It is past."



The Inquisitor Ch. 07



And so the days went on. One melted into another, each filled up with delight after delight, pleasures on top of maddening pleasures. Some days she would remain all alone in her chambers, spending her hours consumed in some novel of lust or scroll of erotic drawings. Other days the Inquisitor would collect her, and introduce her to another machine. Each she would attempt to resist, and each time she would succumb to desire again and again. Most evenings, the Inquisitor would come to her chambers and have her pleasure herself before him, or watch the maid instruct the princess in some new and exotic way.

After their sessions, the princess would watch as the maid pleasured the master. Some times she was allowed to join in, but only to a limited degree. She was never allowed to have her master's cock, neither in her mouth, nor her warm sex down below. On a few occasions, he might cram himself into the princess' rear, but in her sex she was denied. Though she relished it not, she began to grow accustomed to his member inside her rear, so that it did not pain her anymore. In fact, though she dared not admit it even to her own self, the princess grew to where she enjoyed the feeling of it, the extra stimulation.

She was allowed to leave her chambers on occasion, but most times was accompanied by the maid. On these excursions, they often encountered the Inquisitor. Outside of their sanctum, he was a very strict master.

If he passed them and the princess' lips did not glisten to his satisfaction, or if her lips were closed tight, he would punish her in some small way. He would direct them to some darkened corner, and would watch as the princess suckled the maid to his satisfaction. He would have her raise her skirts and be spanked. 

On one such occasion, they passed the Inquisitor in a narrow passageway as he walked with a lieutenant of the Queen's guards. The princess did not bow to his liking, and he stopped short, immediately commanding her to place her hands against the wall of the passage. He had the maid spank her bare-assed, right there, in front of both their master and the guard. The princess' cheeks flamed with embarrassment, and so she was denied her morning chimes for nearly a week. As the days ticked by, her loins burned to be satisfied, so accustomed had they grown to their daily stimulations.

At last he would relent, and the princess would be allowed back into his good graces. So quickly she would climax after such a lengthy period of denial. Often after such chastisement, he would bring her to some new machine, and pleasure her until she could take no more.

And so the princess' days passed. She became quite accustomed to her life in the castle, and no longer felt as a prisoner. She devoured her lessons with growing intensity, often shocking both the maid and their master with new tricks and talents.

- - -

One evening, just as the sun's light drifting down from the windows above had failed, the door to the princess's chamber swung inward to reveal the Inquisitor. He was cloaked as before, but his hood was down. The princess was surprised to find flowing chestnut locks atop. Several unruly curls slipped down over his masked face. His hair was shot through with streaks of silver-grey, and his beard seemed a little greyer than she'd noticed before. On his neck, 'neath his ear, the princess could see a ragged scratch.

"I have reconsidered your rules regarding your run of the castle. If you will not attempt escape, I will not bar your door. You may come and go as you wish, but only during the day. Do you hear, princess? You shall not leave these chambers after dark."

"Yes, my lord." replied the princess.

"In addition, you will disregard my instructions about feigning ignorance of our language. You may speak when spoken to. But hear me, princess... tell no one of your chambers here, nor of your lessons. Speak not of your past, saying only you are newly arrived to this realm, visiting from another kingdom."

"Also," he continued. "The Queen. She will want you now. She will want to claim you for her own. You will obey all of her commands but always remember, you belong to me! The band you wear binds you to me. Your maid spoke of dark magick, and these walls are alive with it. But fear not. I have claimed you for my prize, and in time, you shall know its purpose."

As he finished speaking, the princess's chimes began to sound. At once, her loins flamed, and she could feel herself growing wet. Her mind again swam with the heady fragrance she had noticed before, its tendrils arousing her even more.

"It is time for your lessons, my princess," intoned the Inquisitor, as she crossed to the bed, and began unlacing her gown. As it slipped from her shoulders, it caught for a moment on her very erect nipples, before falling to the floor. For a few moment's she stood breathing fast, feeling their eyes on her. The chimes continued to sound as climbed onto her soft bed, settling down onto her back; spreading her legs wide so they could see her wet opening.

"You are learning your lessons well, princess." spoke the Inquisitor, eyeing her hungrily.

"My lord, " she asked. "Why do you not call me by my name, but only princess?"

"Because you have no name, my princess. Your old life among the forest people is done. When I saved you from the executioner, your life became my possession. Your old name is meaningless here. You have no name, because I have not given you one. You are merely princess, until I bestow a name upon you, when you have been thoroughly trained. Do you understand?"

The princess was shocked to find herself nearly gushing with wetness. The Inquisitor's words drilled into her like his machines had before. Her mind perceived her true circumstances; that he indeed commanded her totally, and to her surprise, she willingly surrendered to it. 

"You may begin your lessons... princess." As he spoke this last, the name strung out into a hiss. Her fingertips found her nipples, and she began to touch them as the chimes died away. As she'd been taught, she brought her nipples to her mouth and sucked them, while the maid and the Inquisitor looked on.

"Your nurse has been teaching you well, my dear." He spoke as her fingers slid down to find her sopping pussy hungry for them. All at once, understanding dawned on her. Her Nurse! He knew! He knew how she longed for the maid's sweet milk, how she had licked and played in it. Somehow, he had seen! The thought of him watching as she drank from the maid's heavy breasts further soaked her playing fingers.

As the princess touched herself on her pillowed bed, the Inquisitor motioned for the maid, who approached the bed. The princess grew more excited as she thought Chrysanthemum would join her in her lesson. But instead, the maid took a small, but fat, pillow, from the bed, and laid it in front of him at his feet.

Silently, she dropped to her knelt before him, knees on the pillow she'd retrieved. As he watched the princess playing, the maid opened his robes, to reveal his massive cock. It stood straight and long and thick. As the maid had described, unlike the uncircumcised ones the princess had seen before, his was crowned a large swollen head. It bobbed before the maid's face. As the princess stared, it throbbed with the Inquisitor's heartbeat. The maid eyed it hungrily, and turning slightly so she could see the princess at play, she took the cock in her hand, and slowly began to stroke it.

As the princess began to slide her fingers deep into herself, the maid in turn took his cock deep into her mouth. The princess could feel herself growing wetter as she watched the maid's pouty lips slide along its shaft, till her face was buried within his dark hairs, and no cock could be seen. She had taken his entire length deep into her mouth and down her throat.

The maid began to bob her head, sliding his big cock in and out of her mouth. At times she would extend her long tongue to lick at his swollen head, before suckling it back into her mouth. Her hands wrapped round its shaft, stroking it towards her mouth, soft moans and slurps escaping around its girth.

The princess watched the maid's mouth on his cock, as another finger slid in. Soon her breasts were abandoned as one of her hands fiercely rubbed at her secret button, while the other fingered her wet slit. She watched the maid's sucking, and could hear sloppy wet sounds coming from her mouth on his cock.

He began to make low moans, and to the princess's astonishment, his hand slid 'neath his robes to fondle his own nipples. His sounds excited the princess even more, and soon she found she had fingers from both hands sliding to and fro.

His moans had turned more urgent, and the maid withdrew its length and held it before her hungrily awaiting mouth. Her hands stroked faster, her tongue flicking out to slide along his small opening. She slathered his cock with her hot saliva as her hand worked it. 

The princess began slid four fingers from her right hand into herself, and began to grind down on them, while her other slowly worked its was down, and her index began to tickle her other opening. As his groans increased, she knew he was close, and as the maid had done before, her finger slid into her tight ass.

The sight of the princess working both her secret spots, accompanied by the maid's urgent tuggings, and all at once a small cry escaped him. The princess's labors reached their peak as hot white fluid shot forth from his cock into the maid's hungry mouth. She swallowed his length again and again as his essence blasted into the maid's mouth and down her throat. At length, he stepped back from the maid, unsteady on his feet, his huge cock glistening from the maid's mouth.

As he covered himself, the princess felt her tremors subside and withdrew he fingers. In the light they too shone with wetness. The maid slowly stood, her fingertips wiping daintily the corners of her mouth. The princess now understood what she had meant before, and wondered at Chrysanthemum's boldness. For a moment all was silent. 

At last the Inquisitor praised them both, smiling at the maid who had just pleasured him so well, and remarking in the princess's eager progress, He seemed very pleased with her quick improvement.

"Very good my princess. Very good." he purred, "Did you enjoy your servant pleasing me as you watched. It is good to have something for your eyes to feast on, as your fingers find their secret desires, is it not."

"Yes, my lord!" the princess cried, her breathing still fast; skin flushed with the pleasure that had just passed. 

"Very well, my dears. The hour grows late, and I shall take my leave of you." he said as he turned on his heel and walked to the door. Just before leaving, he turned and regarded the maid. "Chrysanthemum, my dear. See that the princess is bathed, and has fed.... before seeing her to sleep," he said with a knowing look toward the princess. 



The Inquisitor Ch. 08



Once he had gone, the maid fulfilled her instructions with relish. She loosened her gown and slipped from it, climbing into bed next to the princess. Their naked bodies caressed each other, and the princess's lips began searching for the maid's breasts almost at once.

Chrysanthemum bade the princess release them, only to gently squeeze sweet streams into her eager waiting mouth. As the princess's tongue played amidst the shooting streams, the maid brought her other breast to her own lips, and suckled herself as well.

When the princess had drunk her fill once again, she urged the maid to again caress her sex with her tongue as she had done before. The maid smiled sweetly, and her fingers slid down to find the princess very wet and warm.

"I see you are most excited, my love." said the maid, "Since you have suckled me so well, I believe I shall instruct you in something new this evening."

She bade the princess to kiss her, and suckle gently at her neck, and then to kiss and lick down her body. The princess obeyed and soon had reached her smooth belly and below.

As the princess descended, the maid lay further back and spread her legs wide.

"Now, my love" whispered the maid. "Kiss me here. Make me very wet with your mouth." She guided the princess's face between her thighs, and her mouth locked upon the maid's wet crescent. She kissed the maid there, and her tongue slid out to lick gently at her.

"That's right, my princess. Yes, use your tongue. Explore me with it!" 

The maid grew more excited as the princess discovered new tricks for her tongue, She licked in long strokes, and soon the maid had opened to reveal her secret button to the princess's mouth. Her tongue flicked across it gently, and then more urgently, as the maid's hips began to rise from the bed, seeking the princess's mouth. Her juices flowed and she began to moan and whimper as the princess slathered at her.

"Oh yes, my love!" gasped the maid. "Now your fingers, use them to enter me along with your tongue." The princess slid two fingers into the maid, and suckled her clit as she began to slide into the maid with her fingers. Soon more fingers had joined their sisters. The maid let out as low moan as her walls clenched round them, and she succumbed to orgasm.

As she still spasmed, she pulled the princess's face to her own. She licked and kissed her taste from the princess's lips, and showered her face with kisses. Soon the maid had recovered her breath, and lay holding the princess close.

After a time, she continued her lessons.

"That was wonderful, my princess." whispered the maid. "You did very well, but you shall practice upon me often."

Turning quiet, she continued. "Now that the Queen has discovered you, and has seen that you also wear the gem, it will not be long before she summons you to her. You must learn these lessons well. The Queen will not be as forgiving as he."

"You must use all that you learn here to attempt to satisfy her tremendous lust. But hear me- princess! Always remember you belong to him. Your body alone may you give to the Queen. Let not your heart become entangled in her webs, lest a fate you cannot comprehend befall you."

Her words hung in the princess's chambers, but the maid would say no more. At length, she asked is the princess was ready for another lesson, to which the princess quickly agreed.

"Very good, my love." said the maid, and without another word, slid from the bed and hastened into the Inquisitor's adjoining chamber of delights. The princess devoured the maid with her eyes as she went; taking in the smooth curves of her bottom, catching quick glimpses of her still wet sex as she walked.

Soon enough, the maid returned from the outer room, bearing one of the Inquisitor's creations. As she returned to the bed, she held it out for the princess to behold. It was very similar to one of the devices he had inserted into the tuning fork machine, but this one bore no attachment.

Unlike the tuning forked phallus, this one was exactly sculpted into an incredibly realistic circumcised penis. It was very large, and the princess's mind flashed on the huge device he'd used on her that first day. This one was just as big, if not bigger, it's bulbous head atop a mighty rod. Though her mind doubted it's fit, she felt warmth and urgency growing between her legs.

"Now, my princess." began the maid. "I will instruct you... with this." She exclaimed, hefting the huge phallus before the princess. "Please, lie at the foot of the bed, and watch as I pleasure myself with this. Afterwards, we will see what you have learned, and you will use this on me, and then yourself!"

The princess obeyed, stretching out before the maid, her fingertips absently playing with her own nipples. She watched as the maid wet the device with her mouth, as she had done earlier with the Inquisitor's cock. The princess marveled to see the maid's mouth take its huge girth into it, only to slide it back out, slippery with her saliva. As the maid sucked and licked at the device, her fingers played with her smooth crescent, fingers slipping about in her wetness, getting it ready for the huge sculpted cock.

Very slowly, the maid trailed it down her body to her wet opening, leaving behind a slick trail where it had traversed. All the while, her green eyes remained locked on the princess, drinking in the sight of her body, the hard points of her nipples.

Ever so slowly, she brought it's huge head to her opening, and began to slide it round her already soaked clit, and along her wet opening. While one of the maid's hands grasped the huge cock, her other worked her clitoris as the phallus began to slip inside her. The princess's eyes grew wide as she saw it slide deeper in, seeing its enormity entering the maid.

Chrysanthemum gasped as it drove deeper in, and moaned as she slid it back out, nearly all the way, before sliding it back inside. The princess grew more excited as she watched the maid, her own sex growing wetter as she watched the maid's lower lips stretch round the huge device. Soon the maid's fingertips found purchase upon her button and she rubbed it ferociously as she fucked herself with the big cock.

The maid shifted positions to lay more towards her side, one leg propped up and the other straight, as she pushed it into herself again and again. The device made wet sounds as it slid in and out. As the princess watched in amazement, the maid's fingers that had just been working her clit slid round, and began to wet her puckered ass. As the maid's moans became louder and deeper, two of her fingers slid deep into her ass as she continued to gorge her wet pussy with the giant device.

Almost at once, the maid threw her head back as she orgasmed round her fingers and the phallus. Her whole body jerked as she came with a throaty moan, and milk leapt from her terribly erect nipples.

Slowly she withdrew her fingers, her tight ass quivering, and then removed the mighty sculpture. In the light it glistened just as the Inquisitor's real cock had only a short time before.

The princess could see the maid had been rocked by a tremendous release, and went to her, holding her tightly against her own naked skin. The maid recovered soon enough, and they shared frenzied kisses as their fingers played once again, seeking out their own desires. At last, the maid passed the huge device to the princess.

"And now, my princess," she began. "You must show me what you have learned. I cannot endure another barrage of pleasure such as I just withstood... at least not so soon.

But I shall assume your place and watch as you pleasure yourself with it."

As she spoke she crept across the bed, like a stalking cat, her eyes never leaving the anxious princess, before settling down to take in the sight of her.

The princess seemed confused as to how to begin, and soon the maid soothed her with soft words. Slowly, she instructed her to excite herself once again, using her fingers as she'd been taught. The princess's body responded to the touches and arousal began to build again.

Though she doubted she could receive the huge device, she was surprised to find it felt extremely good inside of her, stretching and filling her as it slid into her. She found her fingers playing as it went deeper, and soon was taking its size in stride, her hips bucking as it plowed into her.

She rolled onto her knees, and the maid took over the device's charge, entering her again and again. The maid's tongue soon began to wet the princesses tight ass, bringing low moans of pleasure from the princess.

On all fours, the princess ground herself back against the maid's thrusts. As her climax approached, the maid fucked her harder, and slowly entered her ass with a finger. Finding the princess screaming with delight, she slid another in and felt the princess quiver all over with pleasures.

When it was done, they lay panting upon the soft pillows, utterly spent from their long evening of lust. The princess soon drifted off to sleep, cradled against the maid's heavy breasts.



The Inquisitor Ch. 09



Daylight found the princess alone once again, and another grand breakfast awaited her. The princess discovered she was ravenous, and quickly devoured a portion of grapes,

before sampling some soft cheeses and breads. When she had sated her hunger, she again busied herself about her chambers, perusing her lovely selection of wonderful gowns.

Though she selected a soft luxurious amber gown, she remained naked, merely laying the gown out for later. She knew the chime would soon follow the morning's meal. She anxiously awaited them, having bade her servant to leave behind the previous evening's toy.

Soon enough, the chimes tolled, and she nearly leapt to the bed to enjoy them. She found herself already wet from just the sounds of the chimes. Greedily her fingers played as the

chimes sounded. In and out went fingers, sometimes coming to her lips and tongue to be licked and further wetted, before sliding back inside. 

As the chimes continued, she displayed her new skills with the Inquisitor's device, swallowing it's size into herself, only to withdraw it, and slide it in once again. Soon her fingers worked her clit as she fucked the massive device, and just as the chimes began to fade, she came around it's massive girth. Failing breathless against her pillows. As she lay recovering, she marveled at how excited the sound of the chimes had made her, and how she'd relished the pleasure her fingers, and the new toy, had illicited.

No sooner had her breathing slowed than the maid entered, urging the princess to her waiting bath. "Come my princess," she chirped. "You were to be bathed last night, and were not. Let us not disobey."

Once in the bath chambers, the princess playfully bade the maid to join her, ready for her touches once again. But the maid was all business this morning, and would not be distracted. Though she entered the waters to bathe the princess, she allowed only small touches and caresses, lest they become entangled again. 

Though the maid did not pleasure the princess as in other bathings, she did allow her to suckle her milky breasts

for a time, before shooing the princess from the waters, bidding her dress quickly.

Soon enough, the maid had the princess dressed in her new amber gown, and upon surveying her handiwork, decided to shower the princess with soft kisses, before laying

on a hint of sweet fragrance to the princess's graceful neck.

"I am sorry I cannot accompany you this day, my lady." purred the maid. "I have my own lessons to attend, and much to do. The master has granted you run of the castle today, and you may go where you wish and discover new places on your own. I will return this evening, and we shall practice the lessons your learned last eve, but until then, I must retire."

As she turned to go, a notion struck her, and turning again to the princess, she said, "Remember, the Queen knows of you. She may find you today. Do not forget my warnings. Above all, remember your oaths."

With these last words, she quickly turned and the princess was again alone in her chambers, content, but more than a bit confused by the maid's hurry.

The time ticked slowly, and the princess decided to busy herself about the castle. Softly she crept through the darkened chamber of delights, before heading up the long winding stair, and once again into the bright sunlight. She strolled through the courtyard garden, taking note of each flower, and each bloom.

The air was filled with delicious fragrances, and she drank them all in. She once again regarded the golden tower, and its strange

markings, but could make no more sense of them than before. She even stole a quick glance towards it's dark opposite, but did not linger long.

Again, she wound her way through passages, up grand staircases, and into new rooms. All at once she found herself in a grand room, lined with great books from floor to ceiling. Up high ran a catwalk round the upper shelves, with a gilded ladder on wheels, running along a track at its base.

She strolled along the shelves, her fingers running along the volumes' spines, stopping every so often to read a title or two. Though the library was filled with books of all description, she found not one like the books in her own chambers. These books held forgotten lore, drawings of strange animals, histories and

legends. She even came across ancient scrolls and books filled with spells and incantations, some filled with light, yet others coursing with dark magick.

It was among these she books she received quite a shock. Rounding a large stack of volumes placed on a low table, she nearly crashed headlong into a dark figure.

"Oh!" she exclaimed, nearly falling over. Quick as shot, the stranger's hand grasped her waist, and steadied her.

"Ah." he said. "A thousand apologies, m'lady. I did not mean to startle you so."

Regaining her footing, she stood back to regard the stranger. He was a young man, perhaps even younger than herself. He was tall and strongly built. He had a very handsome face, and bore jumbled wavy yellow locks. He wore a soft turquoise tunic,

and a thick leather belt. From it hung a jeweled dagger and scabbard, and round his neck he wore a strange golden amulet, hung from a chain of gold links.

Though he seemed friendly and kind, a small alarm sounded within her, but just as quickly vanished. He flashed a brilliant smile, and gave a small bow. She returned a small curtsy as he replaced a small book to the shelf.

"Good morrow, my lord." she said, heart still beating a bit fast from her surprise. "I did not know anyone was in here. I am sorry to have disturbed you."

"Oh, quite the contrary my dear!" he intoned. "It was dreadfully morose in these rooms, and you have brought a great light in with you."

Something about his face struck familiar, but she could not catch it, and it too faded immediately. He had pale blue eyes that gaily reflected the soft color of his tunic. He had a voice of silk, and moved with a quiet elegance. The princess at once spotted him for noble blood.

Bowing again, he introduced himself. :"I am Tarquinne." he said. Remembering her instructions, she expressed pleasure at their meeting. Most intriguing he had not asked for her name, but the moment escaped. She could tell by his garb and clothes he was no mere guard, nor even a courtier, but she did not press for information, as she was reticent to divulge any of her own.

"I have just arrived last night from another realm." he continued. "I rode nearly the entire night, to warn of an approaching force." To this news, the princess let out a tiny gasp. Though she had only been here a short time, the thought of a siege on the castle chilled her very marrow.

Seeing her distress, he soothed, "Fear not m'lady. I beheld the force with mine own eyes. They are not strong in numbers or weaponry, and their banners proclaim them as stewards, It is the opinion of the council that they come not for war, but to broker trade. My own scouts have searched the land 'round their column, and have spied no others lying in ambush or reserve."

"Are they already at the city gates?" she asked, the news of strange visitors piquing her curiousity.

"No, m'lady." he answered with a slight chuckle. "I rode in haste after observing them, and a column such as this moves very slowly. They most likely will not reach the castle til tomorrow eve. But even then, they will only send messengers before them. An armed column does not approach such a stronghold without proper introduction. Not unless they wish to be showered with arrows and boiling oil."

"Well, that is a relief. You do not think they mean us harm?" she questioned further.

"I do not, m'lady." he answered. "Our Queen is known throughout the land, and nearby realms do not challenge her. Though this force is armed, they do not come with war horse nor siege engines. Nor bowmen or infantry, only what appears to be a mounted escort. 'Tis most likely another noble, seeking an alliance with the Queen. They bring with them many wagons, and what I thought might be minstrels. Not the most frightening of advancing armies."

"Nevertheless, I have been ordered to prepare our defenses, which is why I was hidden among these many volumes." he said, gesturing to the stack of books.

"What good are books in defense of a castle?" asked the princess, already growing eager to free herself from this discourse. She desperately wished for the maid, if only to allay her fears.

With this new question, he turned very serious. "Do you not know, my lady? You must be a newcomer to this place. These books are wanted by the Queen."

In hushed voice, he continued. "She is a very powerful sorceress. In these scrolls and pages lie secret spells of untold power."

"Should she choose, with words from these," he said, motioning to one of the scrolls, "she can burn these strangers to cinders before they even reach eyeshot of the castle."

The princess's eyes grew wider as the maid's warnings of the Queen sounded in her ears. Even as they faded, the great clock upon the dark tower tolled. As they sounded, Tarquin turned his gaze towards the leaded glass windows at the clock's hour. As they stood, someone entered the library through another door.

"Oh, my lady!" he exclaimed. "I must leave you. The hour has grown late!" With this he gathered as many books and scrolls as he could carry, and hastened off, leaving the confused princess among the discarded volumes. As he left the chamber, he bowed low to the man who walked in.

Reaching the end of the great hall, he paused and turned, shouting back, "It was wonderful to meet you. Perhaps our paths shall cross again soon." And with that he was gone.



The Inquisitor Ch. 10



The princess regarded the new visitor, only to find it was her own master. Her tongue hastened to moisten her lips as her approached.

"Good morrow, my dear. Making new friends, are we?" He asked.

Though his tone was not harsh, the princess could not help but feel he was angered. 

"Nay, my Lord. Only doing as you commanded me." said She.

Though his eyes smiled, his mouth remained firm, "I believe you might be forgetting yourself." He said.

:Oh no, my Lord. I have not forgotten my oaths." she insisted.

"We shall see." he said. "Raise your skirts, and show yourself to me." The princess looked about to see if anyone might be watching. This seemed to perturb him.

"Look not about to see what eyes are upon you! Do as you are commanded!" his voice angry and powerful.

The princess grasped her skirt hems, and lifted it high, showing her thighs and her sex. Her cheeks burned with shame. Her master merely stood, looking upon her.

At last he said, "Should I desire, I could have you stroll about the castle naked. I could put you in the stocks, have your ass buttered and offered to any cock of the walk, would you like that?"

Her cheeks aflame. "No my Lord."

"Very well. When you are given a command, do not make me repeat it."

"Yes, my Lord," she said, her skirtings still raised high.

"I can see you are aroused, my dear." He said, the angry tone in his voice diminishing.

He pulled a large book from the shelf, bound in a soft cloth cover which was thick with padding. This he tossed upon the floor in front of him.

"On you knees then." said the Inquisitor. The princess obeyed, sinking down before him.

From his robes he drew his hardened cock. It's thick purple head bobbed before her mouth.

"Open your lips, and take it into your mouth." He said.

There amongst the stacks of books and shelves, the princess slowly took his cock into her mouth. She opened her throat wide, and let its girth slide down into it. Though she tried not to gag on it, it proved very big within her mouth. She began to slowly suck it, sliding her mouth along its rigid shaft.

She sucked and licked. She swallowed his huge cock, and let it slide in and out of her mouth. Her tongue flicked at its end, it's point seeking his gasping opening.

All at once, he stopped her. "Enough!" he cried. "Do not seek to taste my seed. Your willfulness has been punished." He returned his swollen member into his robes and composed himself and turned to go.

"There is much I must attend to this day." He drew her close to him, so much that she felt his hardened cock against her legs and felt his breath upon her.

"As for your new friend..." he hissed. "He is not for you. Do not let your heart be deceived by his charm."

He reached down and grasped her buttocks, giving them a squeeze. "You are for me, do you hear? Do not let your eye be snared by the likes of him."

"Yes, my Lord." said She. Though her cheeks stilled flamed, her body cried out for satisfaction after being so aroused by his big cock before her. His hands remained on her ass, spreading her cheeks but a little. He smiled as he saw her desire, and released her.

"I shall leave you to your discoveries then." said he, and with that, he turned and left.

- - -

Alone in the great library, the princess sank down into a low divan. A sorceress? The castle in which she dwelt was governed by a dark witch?

Her mind swam with the knowledge. At last one thing about her captivity made sense. 

The hour was indeed late, and shadows had grown very long. She too hastened from the gathering dusk, and hurried through many passageways, until she discovered she had become quite lost. Looking round, she noticed she had entered a part of the castle she had never been to before.

Though the grey, stone walls remained, the furnishings had become more outlandish, and the tapestries hung here showed more vulgar settings. Trying the retrace her steps only compounded her confusion. Glancing out a nearby window, she noticed she had somehow entered one of the towers.

Looking across, her heart sank as she saw the dark clock tower opposite her. She was in the Queen's golden tower.

Anxiety clutched at her, but she soon steadied herself, resolving to find a path back to the courtyard. Back she hurried, through passage and door, but still found no familiar surroundings. 

At some length, a new sound reached her ear. It was muffled and distant, as if coming from a room further down. She started towards the sounds, hoping to come across someone from whom she could ask directions.

As she drew closer, the sounds became clearer and more distinct. What she had first taken for voices in conversation, she now could tell had a different tone. Indeed, the sounds of passion reached her ears. From somewhere up ahead came the sounds of lust.


Her first instinct told her to turn and run back the way she'd come. But somehow, her feet did not turn. Instead, they continued on, towards the noises. She felt drawn to them, even it seemed, against her own better judgement.

Ahead lay an arched doorway, covered by an enormous thick curtain. Light spilled out from underneath, and a small sliver of light leaked from one side. Ever so cautiously, she drew closer and closer, till her eye could see through the narrow opening. The sight before her caused her jaw to drop.

Inside the room behind the curtain was the Queen, but she was not alone. She lay on a waterfall of pillows, candlelight flickering on her naked skin. With her were three other men, all naked as well.

One lay on his back, his huge cock buried deep in the Queen's ass. Another lay atop the Queen, his own staff ramming into her slathering crescent, The third man stood beside the Queen, his own cock deep in the Queen's mouth. As the princess watched through the curtain, the three of them pounded the Queen's openings, each grinding deeper and deeper into her.

The princess could hear their ballocks slapping against her flesh, and watched as the Queen swallowed the third man's cock even further, The scene was awash with thrustings and moanings, as the Queen took each of them, her hand grasping the cock in her mouth tightly. She stroked him with her white hand as his cock slid in and out of her mouth.

Though the princess was terribly shocked by what was happening before her, she was astonished to find herself growing aroused as she watched them pound away at the Queen. As if guided by its own will, her hand found her nipple hard and erect, pinching and pulling at it through her gown. From between her thighs came the familiar warmth as she grew wetter watching the Queen take the men.

From within, the Queen's moans grew deeper as at last, the third man's cock shot his essence deep into the Queen's mouth, which she swallowed greedily, not releasing him till she had drained every droplet. He fell back spent as the other two continued on. Soon the man on top also gave his last, leaving only the one below. The princess discovered her own hand had found its way between her legs as she watched them.

As the second man also fell back, the Queen sat up higher, grinding down hard on the huge cock buried inside her from behind. Up and down she rode him, her cries growing as at long last he too stiffened, as he released inside her tight ass. As he came inside her, the princess could feel her own wetness.

Suddenly she saw something had caught the Queen's attention, even as she continued to drive down onto the man below her.

The Queen was staring directly at her!

Her eyes locked on the princess hiding behind the curtain, yet still she continued to ride the man, who now cried out. But the Queen would not release him, and continued to slide him deep into her ass, all the while watching the narrow gap in the curtains.

The man below her had passed through pleasure, and now the Queen's grindings were clearly causing pain. At long last, a great howl of frustration escaped from the Queen's lips, and she released her subject. With a low moan, he rolled onto his side and curled up into a ball. 

The princess was frozen with fear as the Queen rose. From before and behind, the leavings of her subjects slipped down between her smooth thighs, Breathing hard, the Queen shot angry looks at each of the men. 

"Weaklings!" she shouted at them, her eyes blazing. "I should give you all to the executioners! Is there not one of you who can last long enough to fulfill me?"

Her eyes and skin took on a strange glow as she glowered at them, and the air crackled with energy. Then, just as suddenly, it was gone.

"Go, you fools!" She commanded. "Be gone from my sight, lest I cast you all down!"

Two of the men quickly helped the third to his feet, and half dragged him through a doorway at the back of the room. The princess's mind screamed at her to run away, but her feet were rooted to the stones. She was certain the Queen would rush at her, whipping aside the curtain to find her standing there, nipples ablaze, hand still clutched between her thighs.

But instead, a strange smile crossed the Queen's face, and casting a last sly glance at the curtain, the Queen turned without a word.

The candles cast their light against her smooth skin as she casually strolled to the door through which her lovers had escaped. The great clock outside tolled again as the Queen stepped through the portal and was gone.



The Inquisitor Ch. 11



For a long while, the princess remained where she stood. She feared to move, expecting to turn and find the Queen's beautiful face just in front of her own. At long last, she mustered her courage and fled back down the passage. After many twists and turns, she found a small stair leading down into the darkened courtyard.

As she burst into the open air, she breathed a great sigh of relief, filling her lungs again and again, trying to slow her breathing. As her senses returned, she noticed watchfires had been lit along the fortifications on the high walls.

Many men moved to and fro, and she could also see shapes through the torchlit arrow ports. Sounds of metal and machines echoed down into the courtyard. In the gathering gloom, she thought she caught sight of the man she'd met in the library.

As she watched him moving from battlement to battlement, her eyes suddenly fell upon the masked face and deep red robes of the Inquisitor. Just as the Queen had done, he was staring directly down at her, his eyes boring directly through her. Very slowly, he bowed his head slightly to her, before turning to face an underling and dispatching an order.

The princess stood for a moment, bewildered, before hearing running footsteps behind her in the garden. She turned to see the maid Chrysanthemum hurrying toward her.

"Come, my lady!" she called, reaching the princess and grasping her gently but firmly by the hand. "We must away!" The pair hastened from the courtyard, and quickly down the winding stair.

They hurried down the long, winding stair, and through the darkened chamber of delights. Into her chambers they rushed, only to stop short in surprise. The Inquisitor was already waiting for them, sitting calmly on the princess's bed. 

They wondered how he could have reached her chambers so quickly, only just having been seen on the battlements. The princess cast a wondering look to her maid, who only shrugged, before giving a swift curtsy to the Inquisitor.

"Good evening, my dears." he spoke. "Please, enter and be calm. Your breath is very fast from your hurry." 

He lounged, rather than sat, toward the foot of her bed. As always, he was wreathed in his crimson robes; his face hidden by his mask. His hood was down however, and the princess was sure his hair was even more streaked with white and grey than the last time she'd beheld him.

The eyes that shone from beneath his mask seemed weary, and his beard was now almost completely grey. Though he seemed worn, he still exuded such a strong presence, that his apparent aging hindered him little.

"I trust you have heard about the coming of... visitors." spoke he. "I have seen to the castle's preparations, but still there is much more to do. However, there is a little time to attend personally to your evening lessons, my princess." 

As his silky voice wrapped 'round her, she felt her excitement grow. That soft, sensual fragrance again drifted about her chambers, and it's scent filled her lungs, sending waves of arousal through her like a pulse. Apparently, it affected the maid as well, for the princess could see her nipples, dark and hard beneath her bodice.

Slowly, the Inquisitor stood and approached the one chest in the room the princess had found locked. From within his robes, he produced a strange key, and silently unlocked its latch. It swung open upon its hinges, revealing a plush red lining. The princess and maid approached the chest, and gazed at its contents with curiosity.

Within the chest lay three objects. The first closely resembled the device the princess and the maid had made such good use of recently. A massive phallus, only this one was sculpted entirely of smooth, transparent glass. Within it, they could see a beautiful winged insect. Its shell was brightly colored green, and shone in the light. 

Also within the chest, was a smaller device, shaped into a oval ball. Within it, the princess could see another bright winged object. The princess touched the ball gently, and immediately the insect awoke, its wings causing the entire device to vibrate. 

So quick were its wings, that the device hummed even faster and stronger than those from his tuning fork machine. As the smaller device hummed, the insect within its larger neighbor also began to thrum its wings. 

The final object within the chest was another, smaller chest, this one bearing another strange lock. The princess and the maid stood silent, listening to the hum of the devices, both knowing their purpose, and each growing more and more anxious to feel it's vibration within themselves. 

"My Lord," asked the princess."What wondrous contraption lies within this last chest?"

The Inquisitor's eyes darkened. "That is for another day, my princess." he replied.

His eyes warned them not to question it further.

"Now," he said, striding back to the bed, carrying the large device. "Come and show me how your lessons are proceeding."

The maid led the princess back to the bed and began to disrobe her, as the princess did likewise to the maid, Soon they stood naked, hands playing along the other's skin, mouths finding nipples, fingertips finding excitement below.

"That is good, my princess." He purred. "Let me see you suckle her. Yes, that's is good. Let her feed you." As he spoke, the maid directed hot streams of milk into the princess's waiting mouth.

Soon they fell upon the bed together, the princess sliding down to find the maid's steamy crescent waiting for her. 

She lapped at the maid, getting her wetter and wetter. Every so often, she would cast a glance at the Inquisitor. She could tell she was pleasing him. Already he had opened his lower robes, and his great cock stood stiff and hard.

"Now, your fingers!" cried the maid, already nearing an orgasm. Her moans grew higher as the princess filled her with them, while her tongue slurped greedily between her legs. At last her whole hand slipped within, and the maid came hard upon them.

"Very good, princess!" he praised. "You are indeed learning fast. I am sure your talents will serve you well in the coming days. Now, once your lusty maid has regained her senses, I want you to lie with your back upon these pillows, and spread your legs wide."

The princess did as he commanded, opening her legs wide before him. Her opening was already slick from her own excitement at pleasuring the maid. She was sure she would at last be receiving his large member, and she quivered in anticipation.

But to her surprise, he directed the maid onto her hands and knees before the princess. The maid gladly began playing amongst the princess's dark hairs, fingertips playing along her wet lips.

He gave over the large device to the maid before circling around behind her, his thick staff leaping with his heartbeat. The maid brought the glass phallus close to the princess's wet, lower lips. The princess could feel it's frantic vibrations against her, and almost came with its first plunge into her. 

Slowly, the maid slid it in and out, its hum resounding through her entire body. Deeper she plunged it; sliding it back out, and back in again. Her lips and walls stretched 'round the huge device, its smooth surface slick with her wetness.

As the princess was pleasured by the maid's strokes, the Inquisitor mounted the maid from behind. He slid his huge cock into her again and again, slow but strong and deep. The maid moaned with glee as he drove into her.As he moved within her, he reached 'round to slather his own fingers with her saliva, before sliding a thick finger into her ass.

The maid pounded the glass contraption into the princess faster and faster as the Inquisitor withdrew his own member from her, only to slowly slide it deep into her waiting ass. Into her he slid over and over, as she gasped and moaned, all the while giving the vibrating device to the princess.

With cock deep in her ass, the maid slid her own fingers into the princess' while servicing her with the humming glass rod. All at once, they climaxed together, the Inquisitor withdrawing his cock to shoot hot spurts of semen upon the maids back.

Even as her own quivers continued, he commanded the princess to lick the maid clean. Not a drop shall remain was the watchword. Though a bit repulsed, the princess obeyed.

Getting to her knees, she bent over the maid and extended her long pink tongue. Her tongue sank into the fluid, salty and coppery. Remembering her own oath, she cleaned the maid, till at last, not a drop of his essence remained.

Though her stomach threatened to revolt, she managed a sly smile at him, before the maid attacked her with kisses.

As they rolled and played together, he stood slowly, closing robes around himself and returning the device to its chest. The princess had the strangest notion that his beard was darker and less grey than before.

He noticed her gaze, but said nothing, only closing the chest and locking it. When he was done, he laid the strange key upon a small table near the bed. The princess knew it was now hers, and she relished the thought of using the great vibrating glass rod when next the chimes sounded.

He took his leave, reminding the maid to once again bathe the princess, and prepare her for her night's rest. He seemed almost in a rush to leave them. Though his demeanor still was a bit unnerving, his mouth had a pleasant smile, and his eyes kind beneath their mask. He bade them good night, and left without another word.

After he had gone, the princess noticed tiny sparkles along the path he had walked. She left her bed to inspect them closer. She found he had left bootprints of very fine white sand where he had walked. Looking round, she found tiny grains of the same white sand on the strange key he had left.

Her mind puzzled upon her strange discovery, but the maid soon distracted her with touchings and teasings and promises of another lusty bath. 



The Inquisitor Ch. 12



Morning found her alone again, another grand breakfast spread on the sideboard. Her stomach grumbled, and she soon appeased it with fruits and fine food. Satisfied, she returned to her bed to await her morning chimes. Her hand absently played among her dark hairs below as she waited.

The minutes ticked by, and soon her lojns began to yearn for satisfaction. Still she waited. She knew the Inquisitor would not be pleased if she was disobedient. And yet, no chimes sounded. An hour slipped by, and then two, and still she waited.

By now she was aflame with desire, but no reprieve arrived. At last, the great clock in the courtyard tolled the hour, and the princess decided to begin, if only to quell her own yearning. Suddenly her chamber door swung wide, and her maid glided in.

Beautiful as ever, she wore another soft green gown, this one sporting lively designs stitched in golden thread. Her face however, was very serious, and her eyes betrayed her anxiety. She swooped to the great wardrobe, quickly selecting a gown for the princess.

"Come, my lady," she spoke softly. "You must dress quickly. You have been summoned by the Queen."

A thousand terrors raced through the mind of the princess. At last her time had come. Surely the Queen would send her straightaway to the executioner's block. She had seen her with the men, and the Queen knew it! 

She allowed the maid to dress her, resigned to her fate. Her mind concocted new torments and tortures. At last she straightened, as she had before the eyes of the court. She would meet her doom head on, and show no fear. The maid pulled the princess's dark hair back, and bound it with thick golden thread. At last, she pulled the princess close, and kissed her softly. 

"No, my lady." she soothed. "Do not cry. I shall do all in my power to protect you from her. Perhaps she has other plans for you yet. She still has the matter of the newcomers to contend with, and it is my hope she will not be distracted from it by you... or I."

At last, they left her chambers, and made their way up the winding stair. The maid led her out into the courtyard. There they found the Queen seated on a low bench, surrounded by many fragrant blossoms. They bowed low as they approached.

"Good morrow, my dears." spoke the Queen, her voice nearly a song. She looked the princess up and down, her eyes hungry, but her face sweet and serene. "Please come close."

The maid led the princess to the feet of the Queen, before again bowing her head, averting her eyes.

"Ah, my dear Chrysanthemum." As she spoke this last, her words drew out into a soft hiss. She brought her close, and breathed in deeply, inhaling the soft perfume of the maid.

"You look lovely today. Your gown is exquisite."

The maid allowed herself to be drawn next to the Queen, slowly taking a seat next to her on the bench. The Queens fingers played in the maid's hair, and the Queen whispered sweet nothings into her ear. All the while, the Queen kept a close eye to the princess.

She smiled as the princess's thoughts betrayed her jealousy, Though the Queen showered compliments on the both of them, the princess got the distinct impression that the Queen did not care for her maid in the least. 

In a flash, the Queen forgot her plaything, and stood. Here blonde hair showered down over her bare back and shoulders. Her gown was soft purple. The bodice cut low across the bust, so much so, the princess could spy a bit of nipple if she tried hard enough. To her own amazement, she found her eyes could not help themselves.

It curved to a low 'V' between her beautiful round breasts, before sweeping up over her shoulders, only to plunge low, exposing her smooth back. Under her bosom rose delicate boning, supporting the weight in an intricate flower design. From under the boning slipped soft silky folds of a long flowing skirt, its form hugging the Queen's shape. Though the princess feared her, her eyes could not help but drink in the Queen's beauty.

The Queen caught her eyes and smiled, knowing the princess's thoughts. Looking back towards the maid, she said, "You may leave us, my dear. We shall walk a while. Fret not, my love," said the Queen, seeing the maid's concern, "I shall send her once again to you before the moon rises."

Take the princess by the hand, the Queen glided through the courtyard, leaving the maid to gaze after them in worry. As they walked, the Queen spoke, but talked of nothing. Her sweet voice named flowers and plants as they passed.

They left the courtyard, passing through passages the princess did not know. They ascended several cases of stairs, until the princess found herself on the battlement walk, looking far out over the countryside, This was the first she had seen of the outside world in some time, and her heart leapt at the sight of it.

To the south, far off in the distance, the princess could just make out the dim purple of the great forest, where her home lay. It seemed to the princess a lifetime since she had walked in it's green. Somehow, the princess felt as though that life had belonged to another person altogether. How long since she had danced on Midsummer's eve, or heard the soft rustle of leaves?

To the north lay great snow-capped mountains. Beneath them lay lush valleys, filled with fruit and game, sweeping out into great rolling plains. To the east lay a vast, green sea, two mighty rivers running down to caress it with fingertips in a large delta. The princess could not see to the west, the great golden tower obstructing her view.

The Queen was silent as they walked, only gazing now and then at the princess. She allowed the princess to drink in the commanding view in quiet. At last she spoke.

"I come to this walk when I am troubled. From here, I can look out over my realm, and know all of its dealings, I have another walkway, much higher..." She gestured toward a high catwalk encircling the tip of the golden tower.

"From there, I can see much further. If I so choose."

These last words were much lower and more menacing. The princess remembered Tarquinne's words in the library. Her mind flashed on an image of the Queen, standing tall and bright on her dizzying perch against a darkened sky; great bolts of lightning slicing the air around her. But then it was gone.

They walked slowly, at last reaching an arched tunnel, leading through the midsection of the tower to a battlement beyond. Inside the passage, the princess noted more of the strange markings and gold-ribboned designs; like those that adorned the tower without.

As they passed through, the Queen explained.

"On certain days of the year, the setting of the sun in the west casts a single beam through this passage, striking upon..." her voice trailed off.

The Queen became very silent, and the princess felt her steps quicken until they were clear of the passage and out onto the next battlement.

From this vantage, the princess could see lush rolling hills stretching off to the west, to meet high mountains, far distant. The morning sun shone warm on their backs as they walked. Its full light lay across a small encampment in the distance. There were many tents; their flags and banners curling in the morning breeze. Just as Tarquinne had said, it was a large band, but clearly not an army.

Coming to a stop along the outer wall the Queen gazed out at the small encampment, the princess beside her. "Are those...?" she began.

"The outlanders, yes." finished the Queen. "They are indeed a puzzlement. They are armed and horsed, but not arrayed for battle. They breach not our borders, but have sent no emissaries. They merely wait there, camped within my sight. My scouts have spied the land all around, and have found no greater force lying in wait. But still, they have sent no messengers,"

It was this last that seemed to vex the Queen most. As the princess stood with the Queen, she noticed the Queen's knuckles had turned nearly white as she gripped the battlement wall.

"I've a mind to destroy them where they sleep." hissed the Queen, low, almost in whisper.

The princess heard a small gasp escape her lips in spite of herself. She knew in her heart the Queen had heard it.

"Ah, my child." soothed the Queen. "Fret not for them. We have nothing to fear from such a small band. I am a benevolent queen, and will wait to hear their cause. It would be unwise to act rashly."

"But make no mistake, I shall know their purpose."

The Queen continued to gaze out over the battlements, away towards the small encampment far off in the distance. The princess heard a low roll of thunder, and the air seemed to grow colder.

All at once the Queen turned to face the princess, her eyes dark and hard.

"I know you beheld me last night. I felt your eyes upon me, as I tasted those men." she hissed, "Tell me, did it excite you? Frighten you?" 

"I suppose I could have asked you then..." the Queen's voice trailed off for a moment, "but I was... vexed."

"It was better I adjourn for a time, so I could better decide what to do with you. I tell you now, I enjoyed your eyes upon me... it increased my lust to know you beheld me tasting them."

As the Queen spoke, she drew quite close to the princess, so that her bodice pressed hard against her. As these last words brushed the princess's ear, the Queen laid soft kissed upon her cheeks and face.

Though she tried hard to resist, the princess found her heart beating faster, and discovered she had become terribly aroused. As the moment stretched out, her excitement grew to near the point of swooning. The very air round them seemed to hum and vibrate.

"Ah..." smiled the Queen. "It did excite you, I see. That pleases me greatly."

And with that, the Queen softened, and the princess felt the spell subside. The Queen took the princess by the hand, and led her to a low bench against the rear battlement, where they reclined together. The Queen enfolded the princess into her arms, and pulled her close against her. 

Though the princess had been told to fear this Queen, she became aware of a great desire within herself to know her... even to please her. She allowed herself to lay soft against the Queen, the milky skin of her bust cool against her cheek. 

"I am pleased you beheld me..." continued the Queen after a time. "It has been ages since a worthy daughter has shown herself."

"A daughter, my Queen?" asked the princess.

"Yes, my love..." she cooed, lightly brushing the white gem hung round the neck of the princess. "I am certain you have seen other ladies of the court wearing a 'lace similar to yours?"

"Y-yes, my Queen." The princess hesitated, not knowing whether the presence of the Inquisitor's stone would once again anger the Queen. As all remained serene, she continued. "But all other's I have seen are gems of a beautiful deep red."

The Queen made a soft sigh and said, "Yes, dear one. They are each my daughter, or perhaps student, or learner, is a more fitting word. Or property. They each belong to me."

"The stone they bear shows all who meet them, that they are mine." With this last, the Queen flashed a dazzling but somewhat menacing smile. The Queen shifted so she could look directly into the eyes of the princess.

"Each have I tried to teach, and love. All of them, however, have proven unworthy."

"They hound me at every turn now, desperate for my touches, but they shall have none! Only at the time of the High Moon, shall I let them taste of me now. They scrape and bow, and all the while, I feel their desire for me... but I deny them all now, though I grow hungrier by the day...."

With these words, the Queen stopped abruptly, again as if she'd spoken too much. They remained quiet for a time, the princess still resting against the bosom of the Queen, gazing up toward the Queen. The Queen however, looked far off.

At last, the princess broke the silence. "Not one of your ladies in waiting have pleased you, my Queen?" she asked softly.

"Not in an age, my dear." From far away sounded the Queen's voice. But she turned again to face the princess, gently smiling.

"Oh, they have all loved me greatly, and I have enjoyed each of their touches; their tastes. But only one has..."

"...And now she only vexes me greatly." With his, her voice took on an edge, but she did not grow angry.

"There was once one who loved me above all, and who I shared the strongest bond. She alone knew my deepest desires, and could unlock my passions with only mere touches. But now, she gives not her heart to me.... only her body... leaving me breathless; but not sated. Her sweet milk will not flow for me."

The air crackled for a moment, but was gone just as quickly. The Queen once more touched the white stone hung at the princess's neck.

"Know this, my dear..." she said softly. "Though my judge may have claimed you, and bound you with his trinket, know that I can take you if I choose."

"His peasant magick cannot withstand against my own. Should I desire, I could claim you... all in this realm belong to me! But..." she softened, "I shall leave you in his care."

"But you shall also serve me, me dear. And should you vex me, as your lovely maid has done..." The Queen said no more, only let the words hang there like a blade.

"So, my love, I shall call upon you when I desire, and you Will please me!"

"Dream not that you can deny me," she hissed, very close to her ear. "Know this. My other daughters, my ladies in waiting; they shall know you have become my chosen. Though your stone be not of crimson, they shall know it still."

"You should be wary of them. Though they shall not harm you, they shall know my taste is upon you, and they will be jealous and hungry for it. Their touches may be more that you can withstand. You.... should be wary of them."



The Inquisitor Ch. 13



From within the great clock tower, the bells tolled the hour, and the princess felt again the familiar pang betwixt her thighs. It seemed an age to her since her own chimes had sounded, since she'd last pleasured herself while they sounded.

She discovered she somehow missed them. In fact, she very nearly longed to hear them, if only to know she'd be under his eye as her fingers played. 

As the last toll died away, a new sound reached their ears. Bootheels; quick-paced, clok-clok-clok-clip on the stone steps up to the battlement. As they rose, a flush-faced servant came bounding up to them.

All at once, his demeanor of subservience slipped from his face, replaced by the most horrific face of war. From his robes, he drew a long and merciless dagger. Before anyone could react, he was on them.

With tearing sounds and sunlight flashing upon the blade, he plunged the knife into the Queen again and again. Only after about three of four strikes, did he notice that the Queen seemed unfazed.

Puzzled, he looked from his blade to the wounds and back again, staggering a step back.

Where his blade had struck the Queen were large gashes in her beautiful gown, but no fount of blood flowed beneath. The skin showing through the tears was smooth and clean. As he stared open-mouthed at his blade, he could see it had dulled and bent at strange angles. He looked from the blade to the Queen, her face calm and serene. He began to stammer and shrink from her.

Just as quickly as the attack had come, the Queen seized the attacker by the throat. With no effort at all, she lifted him high off his feet, which dangled and kicked, suspended above the stone. Gurgling sounds escaped his lips.

The Queen drew his face very close to hers. "Fool," she hissed. "You have ruined my lovely gown!"

The man's eyes grew wide with terror as the air about them crackled and hummed. "Did you think your puny weapon could harm me!" She laughed the evilest of laughs as all around the world became still.

"T...T...tyrant!" gasped the man, gathering a huge wad of saliva. With a great sputter, he spat upon the face of the Queen.

A great cry of rage, a crunch, a tearing sound, and the attacker flew across the battlement, striking a stanchion with a sickening snap. His lifeless form slumped down it, as if he were reclining against it, but his limbs lay at odd angles. His head and neck seemed terribly distorted, and his neck twisted sharply, the wrong way. Half of his face was slumped and askew, and dead blood seeped from a ragged tear at his throat.

During all these events, which passed in but a heartbeat, the princess had stood dumfounded. It seemed to have lasted an eternity, but in truth, only the barest moments had passed. She looked from the dead man to the Queen, who once again stood regal and serene, a dainty handkerchief dabbing at her face. Only her eyes shone with a brightness the princess found incredibly frightening.

Shouts of alarm, guards running up the stone stairs, cries of murder sounded all around.

From the direction of the golden tower, the princess recognized the man she'd met in the library, running toward them at top speed.

"Ah, the young prince..." began the Queen, as if to introduce them. 

"We've.... met... my mother..." snapped Tarquinne, his breath fast from running, his eyes meeting those of the stunned princess.

"Mother, are you all right!" he asked, urgently.

Young prince! thought the princess. She was totally taken aback, having no idea he was any more than an ordinary nobleman or courtier, much less that he was, in fact, son of the Queen.

"Ah, yes, my boy." The Queen said sweetly.

"A moment please, my dear.." She said to the princess, moving some distance away with the young prince, who began to speak very rapidly to her in a low voice.

They spoke for some time, each casting glances toward the dead man who had just attacked the Queen. Armed guards approached, and at a wave of the Queen's hand, they gathered up the corpse and hurried it from her presence, leaving behind a trail of red droplets.

Then came servant women, all bowing low. At once they set to work, scrubbing and scrubbing till no trace of the foolish attacker's blood remained.

All the while, the Queen spoke intently with the prince, not at all noticing the bustle of activity going on all around her. All at once, the Queen dealt the prince a savage blow with the back of her hand, sending him nearly flying into the abutment. 

"INSOLENT DOG!" she thundered. "How dare you treat with them without my leave!"

She towered over him now, seeming to grow larger and more menacing by the second. He leaned heavily against the stone battlement, a small trickle of blood trailing from his lower lip, eyes averted to the ground.

The air seemed to quiver around the two, and the princess could feel stings all over the skin of her arms, as if she'd slept on them wrong.

Just as quickly, it was gone, replaced by a deep silence. 

"My apologies, my Queen..." he began with a low bow.

"But you have indeed charged me with the defense of this stronghold. Should I allow a band of armed men to make camp at our borders, without even attempting to divine their purpose..."

With this, the Queen softened, and they again moved some distance away, the two speaking in hushed tones. Though they spoke quietly, the princess could barely make out pieces of their conversation.

"... from the outland realm! They say they are kinsmen of the King!"

"Know they not who now rules this land?..."

The wind shifted and she could no longer catch their words, but could tell they were speaking of the strangers camped in the distance. They continued to speak, and she could tell the Queen grew distressed over the news.

At length, Tarquinne bowed low, and then cast a glance toward the princess. Though she could sense no overt signs of menace, the momentary touch of their eyes left her feeling unsteady. He rose up, and departed quickly, leaving the Queen alone with the princess once again.

The Queen did not return to her, but stood looking out over the countryside for a time. After a while, she broke her gaze, and turned to the princess. 

"Forgive me, my dear." she spoke. "At times, heavy is the head that wears the crown. I have much to attend, and must bid you farewell for a time. And I must change out of this ruined gown!" said She, with an exasperated scowl.

She cast a long look toward the strangers' camp. 

At last she continued. "Tell your maid to bring you to me once the night watch is set." And with that, she turned on her heel and glided away into the gathering dusk.

- - -

The princess stood alone on the battlement, relishing the clean air and solitude. Her heart felt lighter now that the Queen had departed. Her mind swirled with the events that had just transpired.

The Queen, stabbed repeatedly, right in front of her. And not a scratch upon her! The princess knew the Queen must possess very deep magick indeed.

As she stood looking out, the small encampment caught her eye, and her mind wondered what news the young prince might have brought.

Fresh noises from the courtyard below caught her ear and broke her reverie. Realizing the hour, she hurried back down, through the strangely runed tunnel, and down to her chambers.

She made her way down the great stair, and through the Inquisitor's chamber of delights, and through her own chamber door. She stopped short to find her lovely maid Chrysanthemum, sitting quietly within, accompanied by the Inquisitor. Both looked up to behold her, their eyes unreadable.

"Ah, come in my dear. I see you've had an audience with the Queen." he finally spoke.

"Yes, my lord.' She replied, with a small nod to Chrysanthemum. "And she was attacked... in my presence!

The Inquisitor and the maid exchanged looks, but said nothing as the princess continued.

"A man..." she panted. "A peasant man... Fell upon the Queen with bright blade. I saw it with mine own eyes. He tore into her many, many times, but his blade... it availed him not!"

"She destroyed him. Crushed his throat as if were straw!" The princess choked on her words.

"And she was... unharmed?" asked the Inquisitor finally.

"Yes, my Lord." She gasped. "Not a scratch, though her dress was rent in many places."

"Yes..." said He. "Our Queen is quite... resourceful."

"As you have now seen, she cannot be harmed by mortal weapons. Though her skin is soft and smooth, it is harder than," he hesitated. "... than dragon's scales."

"And then?" he asked after a lengthy pause.

"And then all was a'flurry." she said. "Guards came, and took the man away. Serving wenches cleaned up the gore, and all was washed away, as if it had never happened."

"Then came the prince, and they talked awhile. He must have given her some ill news about the strangers camped at the outlands... for she grew very angry and vexed."

"And then, she dispatched him with orders, and left me standing there to wonder." She said at last.

"And you shall have another visit after the watch is set?" asked the Inquisitor. The princess could barely conceal her surprise. How could he already know that she was to entertain the Queen that very evening.

"Y-yes, my lord." she spoke, "She asked that Chrysanthemum bring me to her this eve."

With this the maid's eyes darkened, but she said nothing.

"Yes..." said the Inquisitor. "She has chosen you to become her newest pupil. We can only hope you have learned well from your lovely maid." He reached out and gently held the maid's face in his gloved hands, his gaze soft and tender.

He slowly rose and crossed to the princess, bringing her into the chamber, and closing the heavy door behind her. His hands rose to her throat, and for a moment, the princess believe she had breathed her last.

But with surprising gentleness, he unfastened the white jeweled necklace from her neck, and slipped it into his robes. The princess searched his eyes and masked face, questioning. From within his robes, he withdrew another object.

Round her neck, he fastened a new necklace. As before, it was bound by a lovely ribbon, this one of dark blue silk, and from it's center hung a striking stone of the deepest blue. Into it were carved strange runes inlaid with gold. As it lay upon her skin, it felt at once both hot and cold, and seemed to resonate very softly.

He remained very close to her, she could again just make out the sweet and heady fragrance which had overtaken her when she first arrived. For a time, he merely gazed down at her, his eyes moving from her to the new stone at her neck.

"You must never remove this stone from your neck." he said quietly. "Your first bond was... insufficient."

"Remember that you are bound to me... Remember your oath."

"You must never give your heart to the Queen. You do not belong to her... but to me. You shall not become one of her crimson-throated slaves!"

"But the magick in your first bond... it would never withstand that of the Queen."

"You have moved to a new stage of your studies, and therefore, your bond has now changed." The princess slowly reached up to finger the azure gem at her throat, tiny stings on her fingertips. 

Though she had been his prisoner before, a new connection to him had formed without her even being aware of it. As they stood close, she searched the eyes behind the mask, and found them gentle and kind.

As her fingers came away from the gem, she noticed a fine white powder, like she'd lightly dragged them through the finest of white sand.

Quick as a flash, the Inquisitor's eyes darkened and he stepped away, To the maid he commanded, "Make sure she is cleaned and prepared. Remember your own oaths through the upcoming trials. Your strength must hold."

With these cryptic remarks, the Inquisitor gathered up his robes and glided out. As the princess closed the door behind him, her sandals scratched against more of the fine white sand where he had stood. Puzzled, she looked to the maid for answers, but found none, the maid having begun filling the bath for the princess.

The princess quickly loosened her clothes, and entered the steaming waters. She hungrily held out her arms for the maid, who disrobed and joined her, but seemed distracted. The princess asked many soft questions, but the maid turned each away, all the while bathing the princess's smooth skin, and laying on lovely soaps and perfumes.

Into the princess's hair, she wove golden blossoms and green wisps, and hummed a soft melody as she worked. The princess abandoned her desire, and allowed the maid to ready her for the Queen.

At long last, after many soft touches and caresses, the maid came round to face the princess, the hot water sending clouds of steam swirling round her lovely face. Her hands slipped below the waters, and the princess could feel them seeking out her secrets.

The fingertips plucked and brushed her nipples, and the soon became hard and dark. The fingertips played down low, her own body adding to the hot wetness of the bath.

Suddenly, as if remembering something, the maid spoke. "Tsk, my love, we must do something with this hair!"

"The Queen would not like that! She wants you smooth." And with that, she bade the princess sit upon the edge of the bath, resting upon soft pillows, her legs dangling in the steamy waters.

The princess watched with relish as the maid rose from the bath, admiring the round bubbles that slid down her back and legs. The maid crossed to a nearby cupboard, her naked skin steaming in the cool air. From within, she withdrew a small chest, and returned to the bath.

She drew close to the princess. She gently spread the princess's legs, and positioned herself between them, her lower half submerged in the warm waters. From the chest, she brought a small pair of shears, and beautifully carved soap, and a small blade, which looked exceedingly sharp. It's fine edge glinted in the light.

The maid worked the soap with the warm water, creating a lather of bubbles, thick with heady perfume. These she spread upon the princess, working it into the princess's lower tangles, till at last a mass of bubble surrounded her still very excited sex.

"Now my love, you must be very still." spoke the maid softly, as she began to snip away dark curls with the tiny shears. Soon, only a light fuzz remained. The princess's body hummed with excitement as the maid stayed close. The princess found the sight of the maid down low, attending to her, very arousing, loving the sensations rising from between her legs.

"There..." she cooed. 'That is better, my princess. But not nearly smooth enough for her Highness. Again, my love, you must be very, very still."

Lathering the princess once again, the maid retrieved the bright blade, and ever so gently, began to shave the remaining down from the princess. Slowly she worked, and the princess began to become even more aroused by the sharp edge against her tender skin.

At long last, the maid poured warm water over the bubbles, washing them away to reveal smooth skin where a dark triangle had been before. The maid gazed up at the princess from between her thighs with a coy expression, before slowly clasping her lips to the princess's newly shaved warmth.

Wave after wave of pleasure coursed through the princess as the maid's tongue worked in and out of newly discovered places, the warmth of her tongue delicious against the now smooth skin. The princess coursed with wetness from the mouth of the maid, the warm water, the slick wetness of her own, and soon she built to a near-screaming climax under the lashes of the maid's tongue and mouth.

Seeing her handiwork, the maid smiled sweetly before gliding back across the water, finally rising from the pool, leaving wet footprints behind her. She selected a new gown for the princess, and soon enough had her resplendently dressed, though she herself remained naked.

The princess allowed herself to be dressed, all the while her fingertips sneaking quick caresses and tickles from the maid's smooth naked body. At long last, the maid drew her to the bed, where they reclined. She drew the princess close to her breasts.

"Now, my love..." she whispered. "You must suckle me. Drink from my breasts, all that you can... Spill not a drop."

She said as she lay back against the soft pillows of the bed, her eyes closed. The princess quickly obeyed, her mouth seeking out the maid's hard nipple, finding it hot and ready for her.

She suckled the maid, the sweet milk coursing into her mouth, and down her throat in warm swallows. Her tongue played amongst the warm milk, flicking back and forth across and around her engorged nipple. The princess drank and drank from the maid, until at last Chrysanthemum clasped her hungry mouth to her other breast.

The princess drank again from her, fingers playing below, sliding in and out of the maid. As she suckled her, the princess could feel the maid bucking against her fingers, driving them further in, until at last she came under the princess's touches.

A new flood of milk flowed into the princess's mouth, even sweeter than before, as the maid gasped for her breath, the fingers of the princess still deep inside her, slipping amidst her juices. She rose to meet the kiss of the maid, her mouth still sweet.


At length, the maid rose to dress, at times looking back over her shoulders to find the princess watching her. She returned a soft smile, and then squeezed herself into a sturdy and beautiful dark green corset. She slipped into an equally stunning matching green gown, adjusting until she was satisfied with the reflection in the glass.

At last she turned. "Come, my lady. The watch has surely been set by now. The Queen awaits you."



The Inquisitor Ch. 14



The left her chambers and made their way through the castle toward the Queen's tower. The princess became aware of a strange sensation filling her. She felt filled with warmth. Though her stomach should have sloshed from all of the milk she had drunk, she felt strangely light and safe.

They hurried and soon found themselves in the courtyard. Normally deserted or filled with soldiers, they were surprised to find a good many ladies of the court there as well. All were resplendent, in fine shimmering gown, all striking beauties in their own right.

Each bore a red gem at the neck, and in the torchlight, they gave off an eerie glow. The ladies were silent as the princess and the maid entered, but she could feel their eyes burning holes in them. She even heard a low hiss from one as she passed.

At last, they entered the Queen's golden tower, and began to climb the great marble stair which wound up into the darkness above. As they climbed, they passed a small arrow notch, through which the dark tower could be seen. Though black and foreboding, a bright blue light spilled from beneath the eave of the highest turret.

They hurried on, past more strange runes and marking lining the tower's inner wall. At last they reached the top, where before them stood a massive stone archway. Set into it was an equally massive door, deep rich wood, dark and red, dramatically carved with intertwined figures.

As she beheld the door, the princess could make out both animal and human shapes, all writhing together. The carving itself seemed to pulsate with sexual energy.

Chrysanthemum the maid drew herself up to her full height, and knocked soundly on the thick wood. Its percussion could be heard bounding within. As the princess looked from the door to the maid, she could see Chrysanthemum's shoulders thrown back, jaw set, eyes defiant.

All at once, the door opened with a whoosh, swept aside as by a great wind. Within, soft blue light flickered about the stone walls of the antechamber. The maid took the princess's hand, and led her through the first series of rooms, each more luxurious than the last.

At last the chambers emptied into the Queens vast bed chambers. Everywhere was gold, precious gems, sumptuous fabrics and pillows, surrounding the biggest bed the princess had ever seen. It could easily accommodate at least twenty people, and was layered in huge pillows and silks.

From lanterns hung round the room, lovely blue light spilled from heavy stained glass portals. The princess turned round and round, gazing in wide wonder at the opulence of the chamber, her eyes drinking in glorious riches. At last her gaze returned to the massive bed, where her eyes found the Queen.

The Queen reclined at the head of the bed, resting against a mountain of pillow against the towering bedstead. She lay with her back against them, her arms stretched out across their tops. Her blonde tresses were loose, and they spilled down 'round her face and shoulders in great looping curls. Her face shown in the light; her eyes sparkling. Her eyes and lashes were flecked with gold, and the anxious princess found her extremely attractive.

She wore the most beautiful garment the princess had ever seen. Though styled similar to a laced bodice or corset, it fit snugly against the skin, almost as if painted on. It shimmered in the light, at times appearing blue, at times a light red.

It was nearly transparent, the Queens smooth skin shining brightly through, her dark and erect nipples standing out against the tight fabric. It came from over the shoulders down into a deep V, crisscrossed with gossamer golden threads, reining the Queen's large breasts together, barely contained. It appeared to the princess as if they may pop the laces altogether.

Beneath her wonderful breasts, the garment slid tight against her midriff, down to where it would normally attach to the skirting. Instead, it arched high up onto the thigh, and plunged down to a small strip, sliding between the Queen's legs.

In truth, her large breasts made the garment so tight, that it cut sharply into the Queen's cleft, showing a tantalizing peek of her soft pink lips. Though the princess was fearful, the sight of the Queen in her sensuous garment awoke a spark of desire deep within.

"Ah, welcome my dears." she cooed, brilliant smile dazzling them both. "It has been a busy day, and I am glad for your company." From her bed, she bade them come forward, till they stood before her at the foot of the giant bed.

"My dear Chrysanthemum." she began. "Has she been cleaned and prepared.?

"Yes, my Queen." bowed the maid.

"And has she learned her lessons well... have you taught her all?" asked the Queen. 

"Yes, my Queen. She is indeed worthy." Chrysanthemum replied softly.

"Very well..." said the Queen. "We shall see. Remove her dress, Chrystanthemum. Bid her stand before as she has done for your master."

The maid did as she was told, unlacing her dress, sliding it down to reveal the princess's naked and smooth skin. The princess stood tall, her breasts slowly rising and falling, the light playing across her bright skin.

The Queen ravished her with her eyes, gobbling up her breasts with their hard reddened tips, the soft silky skin above her sex, the curves of her sides. A wicked smile crossed her lips as she looked her up and down.

"Now, my dear..." said the Queen, addressing the princess. "Do for me as you have been shown. Pleasure yourself as when the Inquisitor's chimes sound!"

And as she spoke, the chimes resounded throughout the chamber. The deep vibrations thrummed through the princess's body, their tones so much more intense here than in her own chambers. At once, her loins responded, with a sudden force that shocked the princess.

She began to pleasure herself before the Queen, her hands sliding down to play with her nipples, pinching and twisting and plucking, soft at first, but then stronger, until they stood out hard and swollen.

As one of her hands remained playing with her nipples, her other slid down to find herself wet with anticipation. Her fingers played about her slick button, and until they could not resist sliding into herself.

"Very good, my love..." whispered the maid, her own eyes watching the princess hungrily. The entire room hummed with the deep chimes, and all within were held in a dark sexual sway. The maid could feel herself growing aroused, watching the princess play before the Queen.

"Yes, my dear. That's lovely." purred the Queen, her voice deep and throaty. The princess could see the Queen's own nipples had grown quite hard under their strange garment, and the tiny restraint 'twixt the Queen's thighs had grown exceedingly wet.

"Now more! Slide them in! Fill yourself up!" she cried, her eyes hungrily watching as the princess ferociously pleasured herself.

Peals of thunder began to growl outside, as the princess stood before the Queen, fingers deep inside, her eyes locked with the Queen's. Throughout the castle, the ladies in waiting became frenzied, quickly pairing off and heading for their quarters. Some found their husbands or lovers along the way, others whomever they came across, guiding them to their beds.

At last the princess threw her head back, her body coursing with a deep orgasm.

"Yesss..." hissed the Queen. "Yes!"

Her eyes sparkled in the light, and outside the thunder grew closer. The princess stood as before, her skin now wet with sweat, legs unsteady. 

"You may bring her into the bed now, Chrysanthemum." purred the Queen, her shining eyes searching the maid. She watched as the maid guided the princess up onto the great bed.

"And remove your skirting as well. I want to be able to touch you. But, hear me, Chrysanthemum..." she continued to the maid. "Remove not your bodice or corset. You shall not loose your breasts again in my presence."

She did as commanded, removing her dresses until her long legs and excited sex shone bright against the silken sheets of the Queen's bed, her great breasts still tightly constrained within their corset prison.

The two subjects drew near to their Queen, their hands sliding from place to place, seeking out pleasure upon the Queen. Soon the tightly stretched lacings had indeed popped, allowing the Queen's massive round breasts to burst free.

The princess and the maid each took a nipple into their mouths, and their tongues lashed and suckled against her swollen nipples. Much to the princess's surprise, milk issued from the Queen's breasts as well, though it was terribly hot, and not nearly as sweet as the maid's.

The maid however sucked ferociously at the Queen's breast, milk jetting into her open and waiting mouth, while the princess began to kiss down the Queen's belly. When she reached the Queen's thighs, she pushed them apart, pulling strong at the cloth covering her sweet crescent.

Once free of its sharp bond, the princess found the Queen wet and receptive. Her mouth locked onto the Queen, her tongue exploring her. She could hear the Queen's moans deepen as she lashed at her with her mouth and tongue. She was smooth below, just as the princess was now, and her tongue found purchase upon the Queen's secret button, sucking and drawing it into her mouth again and again. 

From time to time, the princess would peek up to see what else was transpiring in the great bed. Presently, the maid was on her hands and knees facing away from the Queen, bucking back hard against some unseen device the Queen was ramming home. Her face was contorted into a mask of sheer pleasure as she rode against it again and again. With her other hand, the Queen was fiercely pinching one of her own nipples.

"Aaaaa.... Aaaaa!" cried the Queen, her moans low and breathy. As the thunder outside grew closer, the princess began to slide fingers in and out of the Queen's wet opening, all the while her mouth locked around her smooth button. "More!" cried the Queen. "Oh give me more!"

The princess obliged her, sliding one finger after another into the Queen. Before long, her whole hand slid deep inside the Queen, her walls tight and quivering around her wrist.

"Yes, my loves! Keep on!" wailed the Queen, the thunder outside crashing as if in the very room. "OH YES! GIVE ME MORE!"

The Queen released the maid from the thrusting device, and bade her come round and lend her own fingers behind. The maid complied, sliding in behind the Queen, and adding a few fingers to the Queen's bucking ass. The Queen screamed in pleasure as the very air began to crackle with energy.

The princess could feel the Queen's thrusts hard around her hand, and was shocked when the Queen bade her give the other hand as well. The princess let go with her mouth to cast a questioning look up at the writhing Queen.

"Do it!" she commanded, her long blond tresses flying as she rode the princess's hand. The princess brought her other hand to the Queen's sopping opening, and to her surprise, slid it slowly inside the Queen.

The princess was aghast as she saw the Queen stretch to easily accommodate the new arrival, both hands disappearing into her pumping frame. 

The thunder crashed without, so loud as to shatter stone. All at once, the opening strongly tightened around the princess's hands, and the Queen was taken in an earth-shaking climax. 

The princess cried out as the Queen's wet interior gripped her ferociously tight, as if to break her bones. The climax stretched out longer and loud around the princess's hands, with the maid's many fingers still inserted behind.

At long last, the Queen's hold released, and allowed the princess and the maid to withdraw their members. The princess' face and hands shone with the Queen's wetness, and her jaw hung open at what she had just witnessed.

Presently, the peals of thunder subsided as the Queen lay breathless on the giant bed, drenched in sweat. The princess and the maid found themselves nearly exhausted, and could barely crawl to collapse beside her. The Queen brought her arms around each of them, and they all lay quiet for a time.

After a while, he Queen kissed the maid sweetly, whispering, "I know why you deny me, my Sister..."

"What you believe I have stolen from you. But you have taught your student well. Far better than any before her. Though YOU resist me, your apprentice pleasures me with your own tricks."

The maid looked up at the Queen, great tears silently slipping down her cheeks. She opened her mouth to speak, but held them to herself like a blanket. The two shared a long moment between them, which the princess understood not.

Suddenly, they broke their gazes. The princess could almost hear an audible crack as they looked away, but consigned it to imagination.



The Inquisitor Ch. 15



The princess awoke with a start. Bleary-eyed, she looked round, at last realizing her surroundings. She was still in the Queen's monstrous bed, a soft silk covering her naked body. Bright sun streamed through stained glass, illuminating the room in vivid colors.

Across, she could see her maid attending to the Queen. She was lacing her into a lovely gown of deep violet. Her hair was wrought in a silver coiffure, and entwined with bluish-silver strands. The fury and passion of the night before seemed a dream. 

"Ah, my dear..." spoke the Queen. "At last you wake. I bade you and your maid share my bed for the night. I thought it wise not to send you back to your chambers. I am sure my ladies-in-waiting would have been unable to resist you, and you lacked the strength last night to withstand their kisses."

"In truth..." she continued. "You should take care this day. Your strength will be weakened for a time. Such an audience with me... often leaves a person... drained." With these words, a strange smile flickered across her face.

"But quickly now. You must dress. Your maid shall attend you. You have much to do, and a long journey ahead of you. I myself must hasten... affairs of state.... Chrysanthemum..." she said, now addressing the maid. "Bring her to me upon your return." And with that, she turned and left the chambers, leaving behind the maid and a very befuddled princess.

The princess rose, and allowed her maid to dress her. During the night, traveling clothes had been brought up. The maid dressed the princess in these, she having already donned her own. Though very well made, the clothes denoted a lesser station than their normal garb.

"A journey, Chrysanthemum?" asked the princess. "I am to leave the castle?"

"Yes, my love." soothed the maid, "Much has transpired this last night. First, you are no longer the charge of our master. The Queen has claimed you as her own. But be warned, princess! Your true bond still belongs to our master; never forget that. The Queen believes your bond has been broken... your new stone proves it. But she is mistaken! Now more than ever, you belong to him."

"You have heard of the outlanders who have come into our realm. In truth, they camp within sight of this very stronghold."

"Yes." said the princess. "I have seen them from afar."

The maid grew very excited as she spoke. "They are kinsmen of our imprisoned king! The young prince has held parlance with them. You told me of the Queen growing angry when he spoke before on the battlement. They are unaware that the realm now belongs to our Queen. They have come to celebrate the High Moon with their kinsman! They have brought champions... and wish to join us in Tournament!" 

"My word!" the princess gasped.

"Indeed." replied the maid. "The Queen was going to destroy them... Last night! But I... persuaded her to choose another path."

"How did you do that, my love?" asked the princess.

"I granted her.... a boon."

"I allowed her to have the last... the very last... of my milk. I have denied her for many seasons now. In truth, I was her chosen companion for an age. But she betrayed me... cast me down.. and now I am but a servant. For that... and another deeper reason... I have denied her and all others my gift. Until our master arrived... and then you, my love." At this she smiled to the princess, warm and loving.

The princess fought back tears as she listened. Chrysanthemum, her very servant, was indeed a noblewoman!

"So, you let her suckle you... and she agreed not to destroy them? Why would that change her mind? Because of her pleasure?"

"No, my love..." the maid replied sadly. "The boon I granted her is much deeper. It comes with a terrible price. I gave you the lion-share before our audience with her... to give you the strength you would need to sate her... withstand her. But now, she has taken the very last. Deep magick such as she has, it will be my undoing." With these last, the maid turned away, and would speak no more of it.

They remained in silence for a time, side by side on the edge of Queen's great bed. At last, the maid once again spoke.

"Our Queen has decided upon a different gambit." Her voice was low and measured, as if she were telling a terrible secret. "She plans to deceive the outlanders... have them believe all is well. She will send an emissary to them, bearing gifts."

"Emissaries? Gifts? Speak plainly, my love." 

The maid exhaled a long sigh. "The emissary she sends... is the young prince. And the gifts he brings... are you and I."

"WHAT!!??" screamed the princess. She leapt from the bed, shouting curses. The maid allowed her a short interval, before sharply grasping the princess by the shoulders, her face very close, eyes ablaze.

"Enough!" she exclaimed. "Allow me to explain. You belong to the Queen, my love. There is no denying that... and you shall obey her command. If you displease her, she will destroy you! And others..."

"I can protect you from her no longer. Nor can our master. We are not strong enough. And her vengeance... would be more than I could bear."

"But I am sent as plaything for these strangers!" 

"Hearken to me, my love. No harm shall befall you. Your body alone she sends to them. Your will is to be challenged." The maid released her, but stayed close, reassuring. "She means to break you, my love. She knows your pledge to our master. She desires an even heavier price from you. As for me, she delights in my humiliation."

"You seemed shocked at being a plaything. Have you not also been plaything to our master? To me... even to our Queen? This is merely another part of your lessons. You shall not be harmed on your journey, but you will be tested. I shall be with you, and will let no damage befall you. You must trust in me. All will be well."

The maid turned away, and gathered up the traveling supplies which had been laid out. Turning, she added. "You may even enjoy it."

- - -

Before they alighted for the waiting horses, the maid led the princess back to her chambers to retrieve some forgotten items.

When they reached her bedchamber, Chrysanthemum bade the princess raise her skirts. The princess looked to the maid, very confused.

"Have you already forgotten your rules?" asked the maid, mock indignation. She came close to the princess, giving her a sharp smack on the behind. "You know you are to raise your skirts whenever commanded... I should spank you till you are warm and stinging." But there is not enough time." said the maid, a coy pout upon her lips.

Still confused, the princess raised her skirts high, showing her smooth sex to the maid.

"Very good." she said. "Now climb onto the bed, and spread your legs wide. The master has a task for you before we depart."

The princess obeyed, seductively mounting the bed, and spreading her legs wide before the maid's eyes. 

The maid went to the chest and unlocked it. For a blissful moment, the princess thought she would bring the long device, and pleasure her with it.

But instead, she retrieved the rounded glass oval she had seen. 

"This egg... was constructed by the hand of our master." Said the maid softly. "It is deeply magical. It is linked to his mind. With just a thought, he can make it hum, make it glow hot, make it spin round faster and faster."

"And he desires you to wear it on your journey," she said seductively, as she crawled slowly across the bed toward the princess.

"Wear it, my love?" asked the princess. "But it bears no chain, no clasp to fasten it to my garments..."

But the maid did not answer, merely slowly sliding down until her hot mouth locked upon the princess' smooth sex. Her tongue slathered the princess, sliding deep inside her, making her very wet.

The princess gasped and threw her head back as the maid's hungry mouth pleasured her. Then came a new sensation.

Ever so slowly, the maid began to slide the oval ball into the princess' dripping opening. It entered her, stretching her as it slid in. Deeper, deeper, it filled her tremendously.

The maid withdrew her fingers, and cleaned the princess with her hot mouth. Deep inside her, the oval ball hummed softly, sending soft waves of pleasure from its mass within her. The princess came quickly with it stuffed inside her, her walls stretched round its smooth sides.

"Ah," said the maid, rising and bidding the princess lower her skirts. "Now we are ready to depart. The master bids you wear your device until we reach their camp, and then you may remove it."

They hurried from the chambers and up towards the courtyard. Though the device rode up and down inside her very aroused sex as they hurried along, she clamped it tight within herself. The maid bid her not let it leave her, and she was determined to obey. Its humming had ceased, but the princess found it terribly erotic and very satisfying within her.

The clock tower had tolled ten bells when they met the young prince at the stables. He was dressed in a deep blue tunic, sturdy leggings, and heavy leather boots. He had selected a fine chestnut mare for the maid, and a beautiful palamino for the princess. Their saddles were already packed, and squires hoisted the maid and the princess to their mounts. As she sat astraddle the magnifent animal, the device within her felt all the more pleasurable.

Mounted on horseback, led a little ways by her maid, the princess crossed the portcullis into the outside world. Nearly half a year had passed since the night she'd been first been dragged through. Half a year! The princess marveled at how time had passed. So much of her captivity had been spent in the dungeons, with only the smallest rays of light seeping in. Then had come her judgment; she'd known her fate was sealed. And then, snatched from the block, only to be claimed by that very judge and executioner. How had it come to this? Now servant to a vengeful queen, sent away into the unknown, to and unknown fate.

Though her heart was sorely troubled, the princess was thrilled to breathe in the clean air of the countryside. She had breathed the fetid air of the dungeons, and the heavy smells of the castle for so long; she'd forgotten the fragrance of fresh air. She drank in the scent of trees, and grass... so much of what was lost from her former life.

They rode along throughout the morning. Ahead was Tarquinne, the young prince, carrying aloft the royal banner. Behind rode the princess and the maid, followed by two large guards. The prince informed them it would be nearly a day's journey to the strangers' encampment. The princess let out an exasperated sigh, but said no more. She felt strangely tired and drained, as if her limbs were terribly heavy. She recalled the Queen's warning about her strength being depleted for a time. What sort of magick could so drain a person?

As they rode along, the princess peppered the maid with questions and small talk, which the maid mostly deflected with soft answers. At last she hit upon a subject to which the maid would say more than two words.

"I must confess, began the princess. "I have never seen such a thing as I saw last night."

"Do you mean the Queen's final straw? The trick that caused her to succumb to pleasure?"

"Yes!" exclaimed the princess, then feely silly, looked round to see if any of their small band were listening. The guards continued to ride along with tired looks, and Tarquinne had ridden far ahead. "Have you ever seen the like in another woman?"

"In truth, my princess, there is no other woman such as our Queen." The maid let her answer sink in while they rode along. As they rode, the glass device inside the princess hummed and even slowly spun, sending rippling waves of desire up from her poor loins.

"But no, my love. Very rarely have I seen such a thing. It is not a desire most people possess. But the Queen is.... Different. She must have something of huge size to satisfy her, though she is not slackened. I have spoken with many of her manservants. None of them have told of her being of any different size down there; than any other woman. But you yourself have seen different, have you not?"

The princess agreed, recalling her surprise at the Queen's carnal request, and her shock when she was actually able to accomplish such a feat.

"True, she was stretched when she bore her child. But in time, that is diminished. No, my love, something more inhabits this Queen, and her lust is nearly unquenchable. There is not a man in the realm who can truly accommodate her. I myself have seen her take two men within the same opening alone!"

"That is why..." she continued. "Our master has such free reign throughout this realm. He is free to do as he wishes, because his devices sate her desire. You should behold some of the instruments he has designed for her alone. Such unbelievable machines, even more powerful than those you've experienced. And the size of the devices... monstrous! She has subjected me to a few of the smaller ones, and they were nearly more than even I could handle."

"Really?" the princess asked, not without a hint of devilish glee. "Tell me of them." The big glass oval inside of her grew warm and hummed harder, and her sex grew wet and aroused.

"Very well." The maid sighed, but her coy smile belied her guise. "It was shortly after the Inquisitor arrived. The Queen had rejected many, and was exceedingly vexed. No satisfaction could she find. Then, like a wind, he arrived. The Queen explained she had brought him to conjure devices of torture and pain, to rid her realm of dissent. But..." she added in a whisper, "I know for a certainty, he arrived on his own."

"Very soon after, he did indeed construct terrible machines. And oversaw their horrifying industry. But he also began constructing his own machines. Not for pain, but for pleasure! You and I have both experienced but a few of these lovely devices." She spoke in a throaty voice as she described the Inquisitor's machines, and the oval inside the princess bobbed up and down as the horse trotted along.

"At the time of High Moon last, the Queen gathered her minions to her bed. Those savage ladies-in-waiting. None could fulfill her, and she was terribly wroth. And then came our master to her, whispering tales of untold pleasures. That very night, the castle shook as it did last eve, with the pangs of her upheaval."

"Nay!" exclaimed the princess, though she thoroughly believed it.

"Oh yes, my love." answered the maid. "He brought her to that very chamber before your own, and she tried each. Each of his machines! How many could you withstand? One, perhaps two? She sampled them all! Our master has since told me which machine finished her. T'was the very same he unleashed upon you, your very first night with us. Only he has a special set of attachments, just for her. Trust in me when I tell you, they are so much more massive than the ones you enjoyed."

The face of the princess proclaimed her surprise. She well remembered the toning, vibrating device, with it's forked attachments. She remembered thinking it was the biggest thing she'd ever had inside of her, especially coupled with the second attachment from behind. She could not imagine someone actually enjoying something even bigger. But as the maid had said, the Queen was no ordinary woman.

"After she was satisfied..." the maid continued, "she decided to indulge her other favorite pastime. My own... chastisement."

"She summoned me to her bed chambers. All around her lay her crimson-throated daughters, all lounging about her great bed. Some lay with each other, suckling, touching. Others by themselves, fingers a-blur. They all devoured me with their eyes. I could see their desire to pleasure me till I should cease to exist."

"I stood before her, defiant. With a flick of her wrist, they rent my clothing from me, their sharp nails sometimes clawing at my flesh. Kisses and thrusting fingers greeted me from before and behind. Not gently, but with malice. All at once, she silenced them, and they returned to her bed to watch my instruction.

"She commanded me onto my hands and knees before her. Her minions all spat upon me, the wetness from their mouths slick and cold. Then she introduced me to her new plaything. I cannot describe it's girth. I am thankful it was not the largest device he had made for her. But nevertheless, it was truly massive inside of me. She impaled me with it; over and over, before, behind, and before again. Driving it into me, as her demons kissed and sucked and pawed at me. Into me again and again, all the while, striking it's singing fork, it's tone shaking my entire frame."

Her voice quavered a bit, and the princess saw a shudder run through her. The princess's heart broke for her, and she soothed her with soft words.

"And then, a most astonishing sensation began to build within me, as she gave me the device again and again. I felt my arousal beginning to grow, in spite of myself! So quickly it came upon me, I was shocked by it's force. All at once a devastating climax rocked me, the contraption still inside me. As I succumbed, the Queen's minions all recoiled, as if stung by wasps. They thrashed about until the waves within me subsided. That was the very last time she allowed any of them into her bed. They have all been denied since.

"Amazing!" was all the princess could manage.



The Inquisitor Ch. 16



The day passed as the rode along. They neither hurried, nor tarried, rather taking a leisurely pace. The device inside her played about, as if by whim, but the princess knew her master held the strings. She was amazed at the wizardry of his devices, and it pleasured her as they rode. 

The princess would have preferred an even slower pace, prolonging the inevitable, but the prince would urge them on at intervals. The princess and the maid spoke on many things, the guards behind them never once taking any notice, but rather plodding along behind them, tired expressions plastered upon their faces.

As the sky turned above them, its colors shifted from bright robin's egg, to now a vibrant pink hue. Dusk approached, and the outlanders' encampment loomed much larger before them.

No longer just a collection of dark shapes on the horizon, the camp appeared much bigger up close. Bright banners flew above a large number of tents, flapping in the gathering breeze. Cookfires burned in small thatches of them. A good number of horses grazed on high grass just at its outskirts. The princes could make out the shapes of men moving about the camp. Her apprehension rose with each plod of their mounts. Surely the Queen would not have her be savaged by every man within this encampment, she told herself. From the looks of it, it could be thousands.

The maid caught her eye, and whispered soothingly. "No my love, not all."

They arrived at the outer defenses just as fireflies began their skyward dance. Night had not completely fallen, but torches had already been lit. Two stalwart men abandoned their former occupations, mostly holding up their shields by leaning upon them, and strolled into the road.

One of the sentries raised his hand in salute. "Hail, noble company! Approach not if your aim be to cause mischief."

Tarquinne returned the salute. "Behold my forearm, I bear no hidden blade. By your leave, I have been sent by my liege to treat once again with your chieftain. I and my company bring no ill omen."

"Ah, Lord Tar-Quinn... your face is known to us. Please allow us to have your horses watered. They have traveled far for one day. The chieftain has indeed laid a feast for your arrival, and the watch shall set soon. Set foot on solid ground, and be welcome." The sentry bade them dismount, and left his comrade to resume his leaning.

Assured that their belongings and horses were taken care of, the small band was escorted to a large main tent, in the center of the camp. Rich laughter and song flowed out with the warm light escaping the large flap. The sentry drew it aside, and they entered the outlander's banquet, leaving their two guards outside. The maid drew the princess aside , begging a few moments to relieve themselves. 

Out of sight, she commanded the princess to once again raise her skirts, and together, they withdrew the Inquisitor's training device. The maid cleaned it with her tongue before hiding it within a small satchel she carried. She grinned as she tasted the princess upon it, her eyes locked upon the princess', a lustful smile on her soft lips. Though the glass device was intensely pleasurable, the princess was glad to be relieved of it.

Inside, all conversation ceased as the trio entered. Round a large fire pit sat many men. Most were dressed in well-made tunics of heavy cloth, and thick leather leggings, though their colors and patterns varied with each man. Most had long hair, many with thick beards, but to the princess, appeared clean. Their faces had the look of seafarer's, tanned and deeply lined. Most of the eyes staring back at the strange trio were piercing blue. Though they were not arrayed for war, many weapon racks could be seen distributed around the outer walls, each bearing lances and swords, pikes and shields.

Silence reigned for an eternity. The seated men looked to the trio, at each other, and back again. At last, a bear of a man seated beyond the fire, slowly rose to his feet. His chest was broad, eyes bright, towering above the warm fire. When he spoke, his voice rumbled low like far off thunder.

"Ah... Prince Tar Quine." said he. "Welcome to your and your company on this fine night. Our last meeting was brief indeed, though I see the wisdom in your coming to us. We were most confused why no answer came to our hails or banners. I was most pleased to hear of your return to our camp. We have much to discuss. Come, the evening meal has been smoking in our fires. Break bread with us; join us in laughter and songs of battle."

Prince Tarquinne made a low, sweeping bow. "Hail, worthy kinsman. I am honored to join in your company. I bring word from my liege. When we spoke last, I came unawares of our ruler. It is my duty to discern any threat to our realm, and was joyed to find not an enemy, but mine own kin."

In a whirl of activity, servants began bringing in the evening's feast. Platters and trays laden with food were place steaming before each man in the company. Wild boar, roast duck and suckling pig, fruits and great ears of corn, and flagons of mead soon also appeared. Tarquinne took a place of honor beside the chieftain, bidding the princess and the maid to low stools behind him. 

Sitting low upon them, the clothes they wore caused their large breasts to push uncomfortably high, a sight which was not lost on the men gathered round the fire. The underlings served their chieftain Tymrilll first, followed by Prince Tarquinne.

"We had hoped our cousin, the King, would accompany you this night. Our eyes have not met in many, many years." replied their chieftain.

"Alas, my lord Tymrill," began the prince. "Our king has been taken ill. It surely must have been many years since you have passed through this realm. Indeed, our King carries a terrible plague, and has shut himself away these many years in his own tower. All who draw near to him quickly succumb and die, while he himself remains. I myself have seen him only once in all of my four and twenty years. And only then, from far below in the courtyard."

A roar of disbelief buzzed about the gathering. "Oh! This news brings terrible woe to my heart, young Tar Quinne!" bellowed Tymrill. "We knew not of your kingdom's misfortune. You guessed correctly that we have not visited our kinsman in many seasons. We have not crossed these lands since the time of the last High Moon, nearly twenty and five years ago. We are sorely vexed we journeyed not sooner. Had we come before, perhaps our medicine men could have found a potion for him." To this, all of the company hung their heads.

"Do not let your heart be troubled, my cousin," soothed Tarquinne. "Medicine from the entire realm has been sent for, and sampled. Sadly, none served as remedy."

The tent was quiet for a time, the outlanders trying to come to grips with the terrible announcement, Then a low voice came rumbling over the crackle of the fire. Tymrill, the great war chieftain, cousin to the king, began to sing a somber dirge, soon quietly joined by those of his company.

As for the princess and the maid, they sat quietly and uncomfortably on their low chairs. The princess believed not a word of the prince's tale, but remained silent with Chrysanthemum. They wore long riding capes of sturdy cloth; which swept down off their shoulders, revealing their bunched-together breasts. The capes drew up into cowls, which were pulled low over their faces.

As the men sang their sad warrior's song, she busied herself quietly nibbling on the sparse food the servants had grudgingly given them. She looked round the tent once again, remembering why they had been brought here. Her sex softly ached from her long instruction with the device inside her as she rode.

She slowly counted the men assembled within the tent. One after another, she made a mental note. When finished, her count had reached thirty, not counting the huge Tymrill. A new wave of apprehension swept through her as she realized what might lie in store for her and the maid.

At last, the warriors finished their songs, and resumed the talk, while they enjoyed their meal.

"So then," asked Tymrill. "Who then rules this land, now that the King has shut himself away?"

"His wife, our Queen, has assumed his mantle. Each day finds her in hopes he can return to his throne."

From somewhere behind the gathered men, the princess was sure she heard a chortled, raspy laugh issue from the darkness in response to the prince's words, but the men paid no heed. The princess craned her head, and finally caught sight of a very old man whom she had not noticed when they'd arrived. Though well dressed, even the darkness could not mask his great age.

The cheiftain's rumbly voice broke her gaze, and she returned her attention to the talk.

"A Queen rules this land, eh?" chuckled he. "She must be a warrior as well. Even in our own lands, this realm is known as a power to be respected. Glorious tales of battle abound about your realm."

"Aye. You speak true, my kinsman," said Tarquine. "None challenge her rule. She brooks no rebellion or dissent. She may rule with a firm hand," he added. "but a fair one."

At this, another stifled chuckle rose from the old man. "Quiet, you old fool!" growled Tymrill, then aside to the prince, "Forgive our ancient shaman, Tar Quinne. His eyes have seen too many seasons, and his mind grows softer by the day."

Smirking, the prince asked, "Surely such an old man must prove a hindrance to an army on the move..."

A true look of horror passed the chieftain's face. "Take care, my young cousin. Though his years are many, that very man possesses deeper magick than any in this realm. His spells... you would do well to leave him to his own desvices."

The prince thought to himself that he might know someone with even deeper magick, but kept it to himself. Switching tacks, he asked, "So, you have brought Champions to hold games at Tournament?"

"Ah!" smiled the chieftain, "I have indeed. It is our hope to hold tournament tomorrow, the day before High Moon. I have brought a fine stable, some of our champions dine with us tonight." He pointed out several very large men, scattered throughout the company. Most were large as tree trunks, and their eyes had the look of seasoned veterans. 

The princess took note of them too, but for a different reason. As she squirmed upon her seat, she could not help but notice some of them sported very large bulges 'twixt their big legs. A few had caught sight of her as well, their eyes seeking out her imprisoned breasts, and smooth hips. One smiled across at her, not an evil leer, but the still princess grew more anxious, looking away quickly. The maid softly touched her hand for a moment, whispering. "Trust in me, my love. No harm shall befall you."

The prince nodded his approval. "Indeed you have brought Champions. The Queen wishes for me to extend a welcome to you and your company. We have a splendid tournament field, and all in the realm shall turn out to see these games."

"In fact," said Tarquinne, casting a sidelong look at the princess and the maid. "In honor of your arrival in our realm, the Queen has sent you, and your company, a gift. Two gifts in fact." With this he bade Chrysanthemum and the princess to stand and remove their cowls. This was met with much cheering from the men assembled.

"Oh Ho!" chuckled the chieftain, "Your Queen is generous indeed, to send such beauties to scoundrels such as we!"

"Indeed." He smirked. "Be wary, though. This one is favourite of my liege, so be sure your men do not tax her... overly much." Said Tarquinne, gesturing to the princess. "The other is yours to do with as you wish."

Tarquinne spoke to the company, who now was paying close attention. "Welcome kinsmen and champions, my Queen sends these gifts to you. You may enjoy them for this one night alone. I am told the raven haired one... has a very talented mouth." He brought the princess forward a little, so the men could get a better view. The men cheerfully quarreled and jockeyed for who would go first.

"And champions, the first among you in tournament, shall receive another audience with this beauty!" The princess felt her stomach knot as he again pointed her out. "So take your care with her. The winner of the games shall receive her from before, the second, shall have her from behind, and the last shall have her mouth.!"

Cheers and catcalls went up from the company. They all began to clamour as to which would take the prize, which prize should be ranked as first place; some saying behind was better than before, others that her mouth was the top prize. As they jeered her, the maid softly held her hand. "Be strong, my love. Fear them not. Remember the strength you felt standing before your judgment. Allow only pleasure to reach you, think not on shame or fear."

The princess felt heartened by her words, even emboldened. She took a step forward, painting a stunning smile upon her face, her eyes alighting on some of the men who'd caught her eye before. The maid smiled at the boldness of the princess, and moved to the Chieftain, taking him by his arm. The prince took his leave, amidst cheers and gratitude. The great chieftain rose and silenced them with his hand.

"Now, my lord," she cooed. "We shall serve you first. After, your men may sample us, but honor must be paid in the first hand. But first, may I have but a word with my mistress." The chieftain smiled, and the maid guided the princess outside.

As they spoke, the chieftain parted the flap, and strode up to them. "Prepared, my dear?" his voice deep and lusty. "Yes, my lord." came her coquettish reply.

To the princess, she whispered these last words. "Remember my love, none shall harm you here. Give yourself over to pleasure alone. All will be well." And with that, she led the princess once again into the banquet tent.

Inside, the fire had died, leaving a warm reddish glow playing about the interior. Such a sight greeted her eyes. All around the room were more huge cocks than she'd ever seen. It seemed each man was bigger than the next. Taking a deep breath, they started to undress.

- - -

Their eyes devoured them as they stood naked before the company of men. A disconcerting thought about how many men were actually here crossed her mind, but she pushed it down. A strange sense of empowerment coursed through her. She would show these men, and the Queen!

The chieftain led them to a pallet of soft pillows and fine pelts. To the princess he said, "Let us find out how talented your mouth really is." He guided her down to her knees before him, his massive cock throbbing before her face.

She took his member into her mouth, sliding it nearly to its length. Back and forth into her mouth it slid, her tongue sliding around its head and shaft, wet saliva slipping down to its base.

She slid her tongue sideways along its opening, and down underneath. Stroking it with her hand, her tongue flicked at his sensitive glans, before sliding down to envelop his large testicles, sucking them softly into her mouth.

Back down her throat it went, in and out of her mouth. Its tip made a popping noise when it escaped her sucking mouth. The maid busied herself showering his face with kisses, and torturing his nipples with sucks and tickles. Slowly, she sank down to join the princess before the chieftain. As the princess continued to suck, she grasped his member by its thick shaft. She stroked it as the princess's mouth returned to its tip, the edge of her tongue sliding back and forth inside his opening.

All at once, with no preamble, his cock leapt against her probing tongue, hot semen spurting across it and into her mouth. The princess stroked faster, milking all he had into the princess's waiting mouth. A low gargle escaped his lips, and he stumbled backward, driblets of white fluid still hanging from its tip.

At last, he spoke to the gathered men. "The young prince speaks true. Her mouth is indeed a talent!" The princess was shocked to discover how excited she actually was, the taste of the great chieftain still on her tongue. She found it was not nearly as unpleasant as she had thought. In fact, she admitted to herself that she had quite enjoyed it.

"Champions of the veldt," spoke Tymrilll. "Come and enjoy these fine gifts. Those who would have carnal pleasure may find use with this one," said he, gesturing to the sultry maid, now lying coyly on the pelts. "Those she cannot handle, consider yourselves among the luckiest here, for you shall be treated to this one's fine tongue."

Watching her pleasure their fore man served only to excite the rest of them. Three men quickly took the maid. As one mounted her, his cock sliding easily into her already wet crescent, two more slid their pulsing cocks into her mouth at once.

She took them in, slurping this one and that one, as the other soldier slammed it to her. Soon another man joined in, his huge cock sliding up her ass. She cried out, but it was lost 'round the cocks in her mouth. Soon enough, she was slick there as well, and he rode it into her again and again.

She felt her excitement building, cocks sliding into her openings deeper and deeper. She felt a climax beginning and let is wash over her as the two she suckled released into her mouth. She bucked down hard against the two inside her until the one who ravished her from behind let out a cry, hot semen blasting up inside of her. He withdrew, only to be replaced by another, his member raging, and even bigger than the last.

More and more cocks she sampled. Some in her mouth, some in her sweet, smooth pussy, others deep inside of her from behind. Some men came to stand by, pulling upon themselves until they released onto her chest, her neck, her face. More men came to slide their engorged cocks deep into her mouth, sometimes gagging her as they slid in to their hilts, only to blast more semen down her throat.

The maid gave herself over entirely, her body filled up at every opening. Into her and into her rammed cock after cock. She orgasmed, and again, And again. She climaxed so many times throughout the night that she lost track, and thought her body could withstand no more. But sure enough, the waves would build again as a new partner added his own techniques to the overwhelming stimuli.

As the moans of the men and the sounds of pleasure reached the ears of the princess, man after man brought his throbbing cock to her. Each she took deep within her slathering mouth. At times, she would watch as they ravished the maid near her, the sight of her taking so many at once thrilling her more. The princess stroked and sucked, swallowed their cocks to their hilts, and would not release them until they released their hot fluid for her. She used her tongue as she had with the chieftain, seeking out their opening, pushing her sharp tongue into it as far as she could, until as last their semen jumped forth into her mouth and down her throat.

More and more men, inside the maid, inside her mouth, man after man they pleasured, their own ecstasy enhanced by each new partner. At times, she would take two men, their huge cocks stretching her mouth, other times she would stroke one man, while sucking another, before returning to the stroked. Soon her mouth was full of semen, her face wet with it. Some men stroked theirs before her until releasing onto her round breasts, their seed hot and slick. The princess found she grew more and more excited with each man's climax, until at last her own body quivered every time a new flood of hot fluid burst out.

At last, their cries died away, and each man moved away on shaky legs. The final man gave it up inside of her mouth, the last man depositing inside the maid's poor ass, and they finally withdrew. The maid's breasts and nipples felt bruised from all of the urgent sucking. She fumbled to a large pile of pillows, and collapsed upon them. She was exceedingly sore, and could scarcely stand or walk. 




The Inquisitor Ch. 16



The princess marveled. Thirty men. They had sated thirty men! She joined the maid, enfolding her in her own arms. The maid whispered words of love against her, and they lay quiet, covered by the warm animal pelts. It was not long before a deep sleep overtook them. 



The Inquisitor Ch. 17



Late in the night, the touch of a hand roused the princess from her sleep. "No, my lord," she mumbled. "I can take no more tonight, I beg you."

"Hush, girl..." hissed a raspy voice from the darkness. The fire had died down to only coals, and in their red glow, the princess could make out the figure of the old man she'd seen in the banquet tent.

"I have seen too many seasons for such foolishness, my child." His voice rattled as a beehive, but his eyes were bright and sharp. "No, I must speak with you. Come away quietly. The men who frolicked with you have all fallen asleep as stones. We must speak before the moon has finished her climb."

He cackled softly, turning on one foot and hobbling out into the deeper darkness beyond. In the soft glow of coals, the princess gathered her scattered clothes and dressed, following the old man into the night.

Once outside, the princess could hear all around the deep snores of large men, sleeping soundly. A sly smile crossed her lips. Though the interior of the camp slept, the perimeter still showed signs of life. Watchfires crackled as sentries manned their posts. The princess moved stealthily between tents, searching for the strange man who had awakened her. 

As she passed by a darkened tent, a strong hand leapt out, catching her, pulling her inside. Once inside, the strong grip released, leaving the princess to stand blinking in the dark as her eyes adjusted to the darkness. At last, her eyes grew accustomed, and she found herself facing the strange old man.

"I am sorry to startled you, my child. An errand such as this requires a small bit of caution." He found his own remark very amusing, and began to chuckle, which turned into a cackle, turning soon to a bout of racking coughs. At last he gained his breath, and bade the princess be seated.

"We have much to discuss, you and I," he said, his eyes bright in the dim light. Far too brightly, as far as the princess was concerned. They reminded her of the Queen's, when she'd grown angry at the men she'd "tasted." Even in darkness, his eyes stood out bright and clear, almost as if glowing.

"We have very little time. There are things you must know, if you are to fulfill your destiny," he continued. The princess was confused by his words, but listened on.

With a small crackle, a tiny circle of bluish flame leapt from his finger tips and zipped across the tent, alighting within a small lantern. As the wick flame mellowed, from outside the tent, the mournful trill of a screech owl arose. In a moment, it was joined by another, and then another, the night air softly humming with their sad calls.

"Ah," croaked the old man. "Now we may speak a bit more freely. Their song shall mask our words from prying ears." 

Seeing the apprehension in the princess' eyes, he soothed her with word of comfort. "Fear not, my child... no harm shall come to you whilst my small flame glows. 

In the soft bluish glow of the lantern, the old man slightly rocked back and forth, making a low humming, matching the eerie calls from without. The princess waited patiently, her curiosity fully piqued. At last he spoke.

"Before we begin, I must ask you... the bond 'round your throat; does it belong to your queen... or to another?

"No, my lord." spoke the princess, her delicate fingertips lightly touching it's stone. "Twas given to me by my master, not my liege."

"Might I touch it, my dear?' asked the old man, to which the princess gave a slight nod, as he leaned forward, his gnarled fingers stretching out long to touch the blue stone. The instant his fingertips made contact, his entire frame went rigid, his strangely bright eyes flying open. By sheer strength of will, he broke the connection, drawing his hand back quick, as if he'd seized a hot coal from a fire.

He sat for a moment dazed, rubbing his hands together; trying to catch his wind. At last, he was ready to go on.

"By the heavens, my dear!" he exclaimed. "In truth, your queen did not bestow such a bond upon you. That stone contains very deep magick, far greater than even she commands. Child, know you not what you possess?"

"I believed it merely a charm, my lord." said the bewildered princess.

"No, my child. That is no mere charm that hangs there against your skin. That is a talisman! Indeed, 'tis a stone of Shi'im're! Your bond is strong indeed, and the one who gave it thee; truly powerful."

As he spoke, he slowly rubbed his thumb and forefinger together, a perplexed look upon his face. Even in the dim glow of the lantern, the princess caught a glint of sparkling white grains upon his fingertips from where he'd touched the stone.

He sat quiet for a moment, as if trying to decide where to begin. At last, he chose his path and asked, "Tell me my child, how did you come to be bound to your master? Can you recall any of your life before you came to this realm?"

The princess opened her lips to speak, and then closed them again. She found it very difficult to remember anything before her time spent in the darkness of the castle's gaol. The old man did not press her, merely continued to rock and softly hum, and at last, fragmented images crept into her mind. 

"I remember... I remember the trees." She began. "Deep within a great forest... and... dwellings, made of wood and reed, high up within their branches. There were endless swinging catwalks stretched between them." Her brow furrowed as she tried to focus the images into more than disjointed vignettes. 

"In the midst of the trees were two far greater than all the others, and between their huge branches stood the temple... I remember a great council fire burned there always, suspended in a huge round brazier... suspended high above the forest floor."

"Can you recall your family, my dear... your mother, perhaps." prodded the old man.

The princess cast herself back, but no reflection of her mother could she find.

"Alas, my lord. I have no memory of her. I... my father! I do remember him... Tall and strong, his hair... long... the color of chestnuts. He was.... He was a great chieftain, like your own Tymrilll... though we were not warriors. I seem to recall tales of glories in battle, but they were long ago. We lived in peace among the trees."

As she recalled the images, new ones leapt unbidden into her minds eye. Men on horseback, clad in gleaming red armor, glowing eyes. In her mind rang the clash of shields, the twang of arrows, roaring flame, the horrible thunk of sharp metal biting into flesh.

"Fear it not, my child." hummed the old man. ""Tis only memory now... let them flow out... I shall abide their pain."

"I remember..." continued the princess, forcing the terrible carnage in her mind into a tight ball. "A gathering, so many of our kinsmen had come. All were gathered 'round the great fire. It was... no... can it be that long ago? T'was a Low Moon... yes...the women had just performed the Rite of the Low Moon... I was too young to join... my governess would not allow me to dance... said I was too young... she kept saying I was to walk another path..."

With this, bright tears welled up in her eyes. "I remember being very angry and disappointed... All of my friends had joined the dance that very year, and I was... angry. I... said terrible things to her... and now I'll never be able to..." Her framed rocked with sobs, but at last she straightened, finding the will to continue.

"She and I had fought, and I had been sent to my own chambers... and she had gone on to dance in the Rite. In anger, I had left my rooms, and climbed high into the canopy, so I could spy upon the dance, feast my eyes upon the lusty sport." As she remembered the sight of dancing feminine shapes in the firelight, she felt her cheeks darken.

"But then... a warning call, from the edge of the forest! The Rite was interrupted! The music stopped, and all looked round and round... the women, they began dressing... any clothing they could find near, as the men began to stand, and search for their own... There was great confusion... and then, another warning horn, this one much closer in. The women folk banded together, and headed at once for the armory to fetch their bows, as the men drew near to the council fire, strapping on their swords."

"Time drew out like a ice. The two warning horns were not repeated, and no more sounded. Our kinsmen guessed at rumour, and quarreled with one another. All seemed quiet within the forest. As I remember it now, I cannot recall the single cry of one bird, nor crackle of brush below."

"And then, my child..." asked the old man, after the princess had sat silent for some time.

"It seemed many hours passed, or perhaps minutes, I cannot recall. The forest stood stock still, and there was no sound other than the murmurings of our men. The Low Moon had already sunk below the trees, and all was dark except for the great council fire and torches strung along the catwalks."

"From below came a new light. There were many torches, and the sound of hoofbeats, but not at a run, but a slow march. Their torches... they burned red and green. And there was another light also. A soft reddish glow, and from my high vantage, I could see a processing of men on horses, leading a great golden bier. The red light came from around it, and the air within the forest began to crackle, as if a storm approached. On came the procession, till the entire forest floor below us seemed alight with red and green flame."

"I stayed in my high nest, looking down upon the newcomers, with my own people above them, gathered round the railings looking down at them. All at once a great flash of light appeared on the council level, and a thick smoke. At last it writhed away, to reveal... a man, clad in deep purple robes. The men of my village backed away from him, though he seemed nearly a child. He withdrew a scroll from his robes, unrolled it and began to read."

"I could not make out his words, but it seemed to greatly distress my kinsmen. They grew loud, and shouted at the young man, who paid them no heed. On he read, and now the women about the catwalks began to wail. My father tried to quiet the assembly, holding up his great hands, crying for reason."

"The newcomer finished reading, winding and replacing the scroll within his robe, surrounded by angry shouts and curses. All at once, a great light flashed from the forest floor! So bright! It lit up every leaf on every tree, casting long blinding rays between them. A mammoth noise began, the crackle zipping from tree to tree!

"The great cauldron, suspended in it's sacred circle seemed to explode upward, showering hot flaming coals all 'round, before crashing back through its circular supports and hurtling downward to the forest floor below. As I remember now, it fell on a great number of the soldiers below, but their numbers were greater, and they gathered in a ring below, eyes ablaze, kicking hot coals deep into the surrounding forest."

"We had withdrawn the ground ladders at the second warning call, but still men poured up the circular stairs round our trees, The forest was already beginning to catch, and the flames reflected bright against their red armor. They were on them in a flash. Our women loosed arrow after arrow, each bolt finding a target, but still on they came, running headlong to clash sword against sword. Red clad men with axes began to lay into the bases of our great trees, and men aloft hacked at the ropes supporting the catwalks, sending villagers and soldiers alike plummeting to the floor below."

I was helpless to lend any aid, nor send any blessings upon the wounded as my governess had taught me. I summoned to me all my knowledge of plant and animal, calling the ferocious hawks and wise owls to aid my father. I beheld him in a sea of red armour, his great sword cutting down swaths of men. The forest birds of prey came at once, swooping down from above me to slash at the invaders with their bright talons."

"Again from below, a great crackling bolt was loosed, and it shot upward with such speed... it struck him.... My father, sent him sailing though the air, hot lightning still dancing round his limbs, until he cleared the catwalks, and dropped like a stone to the floor below..." The princess could not bear the images any longer, and her thin façade broke, collapsing in sobs.

The old man let her weep for a time, before humming soft words of comfort. At last he asked, "And you, my child, what became of you?"

The princess straightened again, drawing in a lungful of crisp air. 

"The great base of the tree which held me was burning fast. I remember shouting... wailing with all my breath, summoning all the blessings and cursing that I knew.... When another blast came from below, striking just below me. The shock sent me flying from my perch. Down I fell, crashing into branch and bramble, and then a great fall from a large height. I do not remember hitting the forest floor, but when I awoke, all around me flame."

I crawled on hand and knee from the fire, the palms of my hand burning from the heat of the ground. I remember feeling surprised to be alive, falling from such a height. It was then..." she choked back a sob. "It was then I saw my father. He lay crumpled next to a smoldering branch. I dragged myself too him, and found him barely alive."

The princess cried new tears as she recalled her father, lying broken on the forest floor. She described to the rapt old man how skin was horribly burned, open and ragged in places, and how his legs lay at odd angles.

"In his hand, he clutched something tight. I shook him, and called his name, trying to wake him. He dragged his eyes open and then fixed me with a piercing gaze."

My daughter..." he said. "Avenge us you must. We stand accused of crimes we did not commit." The princess shook her head as she recalled his words. 

"All around us rained down the bodies of our kinsmen. Hacked and broken, they were tossed from ruins of the suspended village. My father's eyes fluttered, and then returned to me with a fire I cannot describe."

"Swear to me, girl!" he commanded as he lay dying beneath the holocaust of his people. "They shall take you before this night's devilry is finished. Swear to me... submit.... Bend your will to their commands. Give me your oath, girl!"

"But Father," I wailed. "Truly this cannot atrocity cannot stand!"

"His face softened, and he tried to smile at me, his creeks cracking as the burned skin tightened. "No my daughter... It shall not stand forever. But for a time, you will have to endure suffering I cannot foretell. Endure, my daughter! Never let your hope die. You were not part of the Rite for a reason..." He choked on his words, and coughed out much blood, but found the strength to continue."

The princess noticed that her tears had turned hard and hatred burned in her gullet as she recounted the tale.

"He was sinking fast, but with sudden strength, he clutched my hands together, and fixed me again with his heavy eyes. "Swear it now, daughter! Give your oath that you will endure. In time a guide will appear, to show the path your vengeance must take. I... I am sorry I cannot protect you from your fate... I was not stron....." 

The princess's voice trailed off, just as her father's had done so long ago beneath the trees. Her tears streamed down her face, hot and salty. She snuffled, and caught her breath, her back proud and straight.

"I swore it! I made an oath to his soul as it leapt skyward. No matter what occurred, I would find a way to right such a wrong."

The princess told of how she pried apart her father's dead fingers with her own burned and bruised hands, to find the scroll the newcomer had read wadded tightly within his great paw.

"I had barely enough time to clench it in my own hand, when I was grabbed viciously by the hair and flung backwards from my father. In vain, I tried to scrabble my way back to his side, but a sharp boot caught me under the ribs, hurling me back again. I watched helpless as the purple robed young man drew his sword, and cleft my fathers head from his body."

"I screamed and flew at him, only to be knocked to the ground again and again. In his one hand, he held the head of my father by its matted hair, with the other, he seized my own hair, and dragged me backwards, through bramble and coals toward the red glow of the golden bier. I struggled and fought all the way, tearing and clawing at the gound, but relentlessly we drew nearer and nearer the red glow."

"At last he yanked me to my feet by my locks, and turned me to face the golden beir's occupant. I resolved to fly at whomever had caused all this destruction, forgetting my oaths in blind rage. But as my eyes turned to behold the person inside, a light bright as the sun racked my entire body... I could feel it's heat pulse through me as a thousand hot knives. The light... so red... so terribly bright..."

The princess fought desperately to remember more, but darkness in her mind's eye closed around the hard kernel of red light and was gone.

"I.... knew no more after that. I remember flashes of light, and my body being dragged. And then... darkness."

- -

All the while the princess told her tale, the old man had sat rocking and soflty humming with the owls outside. He let the silence draw out, punctuated by small sniffles as the princess composed herself. At last, he spoke.

"Ah... yes, this explains much, my child." His voice was much softer now, and has lost much of its raspiness. "When I touched your talisman, I knew even He could not have created such a bond.... Even with such powerful magick as a stone of Shi'im're." A few more beats of silence ticked on. 

"But that was only the beginning of the story, is it not, my dear? Your soul tells me of much more suffering after that night. I see what they did, but you must release it upon me all the same.... Tell me of what they did to you."

The princess's face turned hard and cold. 

"You speak true, my lord. After the burning of my woodland home, they took me away from all that I knew. I awoke to find myself chained in a stinking pit... the floor was hard slabs of white stone, with heavy bars surrounding me. From the darkness around me, I could hear the moans and shrieks of other captives, but could not make them out in the gloom."

"My clothes were ripped and torn, and my hands and knees were burned. After a time, my eyes grew accustomed to the darkness, and in the dim light, coming from somewhere high above, I could barely make out the writing on the scroll I'd taken from my father's hands."

"I could scarcely breath, the stench made me retch more than once as I stumbled through the words inked there. It was written in the common language, and I found I could recall the lessons of my governess in language. My mind reeled as I read the lies therein."

"Traitors and thieves! We had been branded as traitors to a ruler we knew nothing of! We held to our own laws, and ventured not from our forest realm, but now a new liege had claimed our lands as their own, and called us thieves!"

"Furthermore, we were named as Druids! Druids, as if we were as backwards as those doddering old men in their white robes. We were no Druids, we were..."

"Sprites!" cried the old man, finishing her thought as she searched for the proper word. "Woodland spirits... I knew the moment I saw you... You soft skin tells the tale."

"Yes, my lord. You have struck it true on the head."

"Ah..." he said. "I have lived many a season, and heard many tales, even stories of the destruction of your people, but I never dreamed I would meet a living one!" He cackled with glee, rocking back and forth. For the first time, the princess noticed more and more owls had joined the chorus outside. From her seat in his tent, she could make out not just the trill of screech owls, but the low hoots of great horned owls, and the cries of barn owls as well.




The Inquisitor Ch. 17



"Tell me, my child... do you know the year of your birth? I mean to say, how many seasons have you passed. Does the hour of your birth not draw near."

The princess was stunned. "Why yes, my lord! How could you... I have seen the passing of twenty and four winters already, and I shall turn another year down on the night of the High Moon."

The old man was rocked by a series of cackling laughter, and he rocked faster and faster.

"I knew it! Yes, yes, I knew it to be true! The daughter of a woodland chief, born at the high moon...Yes! I knew it to be true!" His cackles grew loud, so much that the princess feared they would be overhead.

At last, his rocking slowed, and his terrible laughter subsided, as he once again settled down. At length, he leaned forward, his gaze intent.

"Hearken to me, girl." He spoke. "Our time together grows short, and there is much to tell you. I know you have many questions, and I fear I have but few answers. You shall discover your own truths in time."

" I shall speak to you of prophecy and terrible plots. But first... Know you this... the tale your prince Tar'Quinne tells of your king fallen ill is a falsehood! An outright lie! Your king lies imprisoned! And we, his kinsmen, have come to free him."

"But alas, all the magick I possess is not enough to unseat your Queen. She has grown too powerful, and her wrath is too mighty to withstand. None of our company could scarce get near enough to her to take her down. Nor are any here strong enough to withstand her spells of charm.

"But hearken to me... I lay before you a plot. A fiendish plan to tear her from her throne!"

The darkness outside grew fainter as he the old man spoke in hushed tones with the princess. Hours passed as he laid out his plan to her, and as the sun began to brighten the sky in the east, the princess crept back to her maid's slumbering side, a bright object clutched within her palm.



The Inquisitor Ch. 18



[ The heat shimmered over the desert sand, hot sunlight bending around it, forming pools of witchy water, melting away as he drew closer. His cloak steamed out behind him as he rode, urging his mount onward at top speed. Behind him, the roar of hoof-beats and war blended into a cacophony of great sound.

Onward he surged, armour gleaming in the desert sun, sword raised high above his head as he charged up another dune. Reaching its crest, he hesitated not a moment as his steed sped down it's slope. At it's base lay death. A great line of men and machine, of steel and arrow, of shield and bone and flesh and hate, lay waiting for him below the great dune.

Behind his came his army, steel raised high, cries of men as they joined him in the rush toward the enemy. Rows and rows of heavy horse, teeth filed to points, shoes of iron honed to razors edge, bearing down upon the men below.

The enemy raised great wooden pikes before them, and into them he charged, sword flashing as cleaved men's heads from their frame. Heavy horse and men impaled upon the stakes, but on they came, crashing into the line of battle with sheer force of will.

The clash of steel and the cries of men rose into the unforgiving desert air. High above circled the carrion birds, waiting for the dust and hate to clear, before claiming their own spoils. Battle cries all 'round, and shrieks of pain as sword met flesh. His mount rained destruction before him, her teeth tearing, her hooves slashing with the strength of a hammer, his sword reaping men as wheat. All about struggled mighty men and their fierce desert opponents, each determined their enemies blood to drink full.

Surging between defeat and victory, the battle raged on. Men fell, arrows bristling from chests like pins in cushions. Limbs and hands and heads lay heaped upon the sand, soaked bright red with the blood of combatants.

His mount faltered beneath him, her belly slashed wide by the curved sword of an enemy. Leaping from her, he dove headlong into the fray, slicing great arcs with his red sword. The tide seemed with him and his men, and the enemy gave up ground by the yard instead the inch. 

Then all at once the air was torn by the sound of many trumpets. His eyes beheld with dread the battalion of reserves, crashing into their weak flank, sawing their way through his men in a great dagger stroke, followed by yet another on the rightflank.

The battle was lost, his men doomed. His eyes closed as the angry hands of his enemy closed round him, beating him downward... downward... downward. ]

- -

The princess awoke with a start. By her side, Chrysanthemum slept restlessly, slight whimpers slipping past her slumbering lips. The princess felt gooseflesh spring up on her forearms and neck, and she hugged herself tightly to ward them off.

The dream left her strongly shaken, its violence affecting her even in wakefulness. So fresh in her mind, she could still hear the ring of steel against steel and the growls of men locked in combat.

It took several moments for her to realize the sounds came not from her mind, but from outside. Rousing her maid, she in turn helped Chrystanthemum don fresh clothes and pulled back her wild hair. As the princess attended the maid, she noticed her golden locks of hair were shot through with many streaks of grey. As the maid stood, the princess noted with alarm her maid's frail appearance. Even her faced seemed drawn and aged.

In a moment the withered look faded from the maid's face, but the streaks of grey stood out almost white amongst the golden strands.

"Fear not, my love." Soothe the maid, sensing the apprehension of the princess. "All will be well." The princess questioned her again, fearing for her love, but the maid would say no more. As they gathered their things and left their empty tent, the princess noticed the maid walked with some difficulty, and therefore she drew the maid to her side, to carry some of her weight.

Outside, they found the men of the camp engaged in what could only be described as pitched battle. Swords clashed against shield, men tilted toward each other on jousting runs, archers pulled bowstrings taut towards targets made of thick wood, the bolts striking the bulls eye with a loud thunk.

From their side came the deep voice of Tymrilll, the chieftain.

"Ah, good morrow, ladies." He said with a deep bow. "My deepest apologies if my men woke you." He gestured toward the soldiers.

"They train for the tournament. Look how even the lesser men give our champions a good showing." His booming voice rumbled with deep pride as he watched his kinsmen.

"But come, my ladies. The sun has already risen high, and you must be off to your own keep. I am sure your Queen will want to hear of our talks, and you..." he said drawing near to the princess, "will need to prepare. My champions fight with the strength of ten men, and each wants his own share of your prize." Though his voice dripped with lust, his eyes held a secret knowledge, and he gave an imperceptible nod towards the princess.

In a flash it was gone, and he was ushering them through the camp toward their horses. "Your mounts have been watered and fed, and they champ at the bit... so eager are they to return you home. Your prince Tar Quinne has ridden on ahead, but see," He pointed to a distant hillock. "He awaits you there and will travel on with you hence. Here... two of my men will accompany you. The guards who came with you have... gone on ahead as well."

The princess eyed Tymrilll with suspicion, but something in his eyes told her of his genuine feelings and she allowed him to hoist her onto her steed. Tenderly, he swooped the maid into his arms, and placed her in her own saddle, his hands remaining to steady her.

As they turned to go, the great chieftain whispered something to the maid. Though she could not be sure, she thought she heard him say something like "Sleep well, my Queen."

The princess plied the maid with her eyes for an answer, but none came, and at last, she sighed, steering her mount down the pathway toward the distant hillock where Tarquinne stood.

- -

They rode in silence for a while, one of Tymrilll's men taking up position before them, and the other dropping back behind. As he rode, his eyes strayed now and again to maid's swaying bottom, and he smiled to himself, recalling the pleasure of the night before. 

As they rode along, the princess could see the maid was pained. Though she felt deeply for the maid, she knew she must be sore for the night's revelry. Despite herself, she felt her nipples harden as she recalled the sight of her beautiful maid, savagely pleasuring those men. A momentary flash leapt across her mind, thinking of her own lust before her own crop of men, the taste of them still on her tongue, and a delicious image of them claiming her as the tournament prize crept unbidden into her thoughts.

Onward they rose, as the sun crept higher. The hillock they had spied from the outlander's camp seemed closer, but still looked a good distance away when they reach the noon time.

The maid suddenly spoke up, proclaiming that she and her charge needed to rest, and take some food. The outlanders who rode with them felt no great hurry to catch up with the young prince. In fact, each man harbored his own desire to cleave that false smile from the prince's simpering face. They found a lovely thatch beneath a large oak, and dismounted, the men breaking out foodstuffs from their saddle pouches.

The princess found the maid already seated on the soft grass, and slid in beside her, bearing a crisp apple for her love. The maid smiled sweetly to the princess, and again, she caught a momentary flash of aged skin on her maid's face.

"Thank you, my love..." said the maid weakly. "I have no doubt that is the sweetest fruit in the realm, but I need something else to sustain me this day."

The princess furrowed her brow, knowing they had not brought any great feast with them in their small pouches.

"You must eat, my love." She told the maid. "You look weary... like you've walked a hundred leagues."

To this, the maid smiled again, laying a soft hand upon the princess' cheek. "A hundred leagues and more, my love." She said, her voice growing serious.

"But you must hearken to me now. The time grows short, and my strength fades. I must... I must take sustenance... to regain some strength. We will need it before it is through. Now, you must trust in me, even though you may not understand."

The princess nodded to the maid, though she indeed did not understand. Her confusion grew as Chrysanthemum bade the two outlanders to come close, and sit with them under the shade.

When all had found a comfortable place, the maid rose, and slid down between the two lounging men, whispering soft words to each in turn. They princess's eyes grew wide as she saw the men grow hard under their tunics, great cocks standing strong under the leather thongs which hung from their sturdy belts. All the while the maid continued to whisper and coo, her hands sliding over their bodies.

The princess' jaw hung open in shock as she watched the maid swallow one of the men's hard cocks to it's hilt, her head bobbing up and down. His head lolled side to side as she took him in, slick saliva running down its shaft before being swallowed again. Soon enough, his frame went rigid, and he cried out as he shot hot load of seed down her throat.

Without a beat, the maid left him panting, and turned to the other man, who already had his own cock out for her. Her tongue slathered over its head, still sticky from his compatriot's pleasure, and then sank it deep into her mouth.

The princess could feel herself grow excited as she watched the maid slide his massive member down her throat, her own body quivering with each sight of the maid's pink tongue as it flicked back and forth over the man's erect pole. Her hands grasped it's shaft and slid up and down, jerking it towards her waiting mouth, her tongue probing his cock's opening, until at last, she pulled him deep into her mouth again as he released into her.

With a shudder, he fell back against the grass. The maid daintily stood, her delicate finger coyly dabbing the corner of her pink lips, savouring the last little bit of him. To the princess's surprise, the grey streaks in her hair had softened greatly, replaced by rich golden strands. Equally surprising were the faint grey streaks in the hair of the men she'd just pleasured.

The maid returned to the princess, lightly plucking the apple from her hand, and taking a great bite, its juice dribbling on her chin, before handing it back.

"Ah..." the maid exclaimed. "Delightful!" 

She turned and spoke words of gratitude to the men, who returned them with their own grateful praise. The bewildered princess looked from the maid, to the men, and again to the maid.

"Trouble not your thoughts, my love," soothed the princess, pulling her to her feet. "As I said... I needed... sustenance. We have far to go, and these men have done more for me than any sweet fruit could do."

Her eyes sparkled as she spoke, and her steps seemed quicker and lighter, as they finished the noon-time meal. As they packed, the men exchanged befuddled looks, before eagerly munching on dried meats and fruits as they resaddled the horses.



The Inquisitor Ch. 19



They reached the hillock soon enough, only to find a very grouchy prince. He scolded the pair for dallying so, harping on the time and the light and the late hour they would return to the castle.

Without allowing the princess and the maid a moment to climb down and rest, he leapt onto his horse and started down the ruddy track toward the castle. The princess and the maid exchanged weary looks and followed in behind him, the two outlanders taking up position a good distance behind the small column. 

As they rode along, they came near to a hard rocky outcropping, lying at the base of a low ridge which rolled far off into the distance where it at last formed an arm of one of the great mountains to the east. Though strewn about with boulders and sharp rock, the outcropping had one smooth face set deep into the hillside. 

Two great boulders had long ago been rolled together over some huge opening underneath. The boulders came together and were sealed all around with mortar and stone, and their faces were smoothed down into a great carved door.

Into the smooth rock was carved deep runes, and it was shot through with the strange filigreed ribbons of gold like those of the golden tower in their own castle. The princess had no idea what they runes meant, nor the strange golden ribbons.

Turning to the maid, she asked about the great doorway in the hillside, but the maids face turned dark and sad, and she said no more for quite some time.

The afternoon wore on as the made their way back toward more familiar territory. The prince quickly grew tired of their company and would ride many lengths ahead, before stopping and waiting, then riding on. The princess and the maid made small talk as they rode along. The princess felt as though her head were spinning; in her minds eye she recounted all the old man had said.

At last, the princess could bear the suspense no longer and asked her maid direct questions about what had transpired at the glen.

"Tell me, Chrysanthemum. Why is it that you used those men so? How could such pleasure grant you sustenance? By what devilry has your hair changed? I took note of the snowy lengths just this morning, yet now I can hardly see them."

A few moments passed, and at last the princess asked. "Be truthful with me now, are you bewitched as our Queen?"

The maid let out a long sigh.

"No, my love." she said. "I am not bewitched as she. But am bewitched in other ways. Do you recall me telling you of the boon I granted her just before we were sent to the outlanders?"

"Yes, of course." Replied the maid, remembering the maid's account of how she'd given her last sweet drop.

"T'was no small favor I gave, my love. T'was my own undoing. I had hoped I would have strength enough to endure, but alas, my strength fades by each movement of the sun. Tell me, my love, how many summers do you think I have seen?"

The princess thought a moment, and then, "Surely not very many more than I. Your beauty and youth are very equal my own... are they not?"

The maid sighed long again, and this time, the weariness the princess had seen earlier flashed cross her soft face for but a moment.

"No, my dear princess... In truth I have seen as many as you, and nearly a hundred more."

The princess stared at the maid in shock. Surely the beauty that rose beside her could not have passed a hundred years. It was impossible! But seeing her eyes, the princess knew the maid's words held true.

"But... but how?" she cried.

"Long ago my love, I was once just like you. I lived as one with the birds of the air, and the plants of the earth. But then... everything changed." She fell silent for a long time. At last she spoke again.

"Hear me, my love... I harbor no such evil as our Queen happily invites. But I have been with her for a very long time... perhaps even from the beginning. And I have learned... certain tricks from her. One of those, I used upon those very happy men who ride behind us. From them I tasted but a small portion of their strength, and used it to... sustain myself for a time."

The princess shook her head in disbelief. She had seen much magick in her time in this realm, but to witness it firsthand was a shock.

"And so now... all is well?" she asked hopefully, but the maid would say no more.

They rode along in silence for a good while. After a time, Chrysanthemum bade the two outlanders to take their mounts' reigns, so they might rest awhile as they rode.

- -

The first thing his waking mind recognized was the sound of water. Not great rushing streams, but an irregular drop onto hard stone. His eyes opened, but all remained dark. Am I blinded? Have my eyes been gouged out? How had he gone from such blinding desert light, to such utter blackness now? Was this death... the underworld?

His hand felt through the blackness, finding hard rough stone beneath him. As they searched high and low, they felt nothing but the cold floor, and empty space beyond.

His mind screamed out 'neath the crushing veil of black. No... wait. Not entirely devoid of light. As his wide eyes stared about, he began to discern vague shapes in the darkness.

Far out in the void, some bluish light reflected off of jagged planes of bare rock. As he forced himself to be calm, gradually his mind resolved the faint images in the dark. Far off, he could distinguish an incredibly high rock wall. As he stared up into the dark, he could find no summit, and as he stared below, he could find no bottom. As he turned round, he found a similar wall only a few bare feet behind him.

He stood upon a small ledge, merely an outcropping, rather than a ledge, with a smooth floor. As he slowly bent to his knees, he felt round the floor until his fingers came to abrupt halt. Only by a few measures, the ledge ceased, leaving only empty air, and a great fall.

At last, his memory locked upon some forgotten knowledge. An oubliette! He was in an oubliette! A place of forgetting... his memory told him there was no need for chains in this prison. 

Though he was neither bound nor restrained, he was just as surely trapped. Reaching his hands as high as his reach could take, they found no hand hold or purchase of any kind; the wall behind rubbed smooth as glass.

At least I am alive, thought he. For hours, he scrabbled at the smooth wall, trying to find the tiniest crack with which to pull upon. At last, he sank down in a sad heap against it.

Feeling round the floor of the ledge, his hand came across a small bone, most likely that of a rodent, which he tossed over the open edge at the forefront of his prison, and waited... and waited... and waited for the small sound of it striking bottom far below.



The Inquisitor Ch. 20



The horse faltered but a moment in an uneven rut in the track they followed, jarring the princess from her restless daze. As she rubbed the dream from her eyes, she noticed the sun had sunk mush lower in the afternoon sky.

In the distance, she could make out the castle she now called home. The princess marveled at how long she had dozed on horseback. Looking 'round, she spied her maid a few paces ahead, lightly carrying her horse's reigns. Up ahead, she could see prince Tarquinne deftly traversing a small stream.

The maid noticed she had roused, and slowed her pace to slide alongside the princess. "It is good to see you again, my love." Said the maid softly. "You have slept for quite some time, we have traveled many leagues.

"Indeed," said the princess, looking ahead to the keep. Round them , the land had flattened into richer farmlands, and at various intervals, the princess spied small rounded dwellings, covered by thatch roofs. 

"And what of you, my love?" asked the princess, turning to the maid. "Did you rest at all?"

The maid nodded and flashed a brilliant smile to the princess. But as she watched her maid's face, a momentary flash of sadness crossed the bright green eyes. Quickly, she turned away and began pointing out meaningless details in the surrounding landscape.

After a while, the maid returned her attention to the princess. "You thrashed quite a bit in your sleep, my princess." She said softly. "Does something trouble you?"

"No, my love..." she replied. "It was merely dreams." She hesitated a moment, and then in a low voice, she continued.

"In truth, I have had many strange dreams of late."

To this the maid raised an eyebrow and listened intently as the princess went on.

"These dreams... they are terribly vivid... at times violent. And the strangest part... it feels almost as if they.... As if they do not belong to me at all... like they are pictures in a book... I wish I had better words to explain them." The princess recounted the strange dreams of desert battles and bottomless pits to the maid.

The maid pondered her words for a moment.

"Dreams are often like chaff blown about on the wind. You try to catch hold to them, only to have them blow through your fingertips. The ancients had shamans who would interpret dreams for their hidden meanings, but their knowledge was long ago lost upon the ages. I know not what to make of them; but know this. The truths they try to tell you will in time become clear." With this, the maid smiled gently, leaning over to steal a quick kiss from the princess.

As they rode along, the princess hope to herself that she might uncover some of the answers she sought with the object the old man had given her.

- -

The sunk had sunk behind the horizon by the time the reached their stronghold, casting the sky in a deep velvet blue. The small forest track they had followed had turned to a wide smooth road, leading straight to the keep's main gate and portcullis. 

As they drew near, they could see the castle had been festooned with colorful banners and flags from each standard. Torches burned merrily in their iron braziers, casting a warm and flickering orange glow on the stone walls. In the surrounding pastures were many horses, and outside the walls, a large group had gathered on either side of the wide thoroughfare.

Prince Tarquinne, who had finally decided to accompany them the rest of the way to the castle, explained they were citizens of the realm. They had come to take part in the upcoming festivities. Though the princess and maid spied many villagers and common folk, a great number of the growing encampment had the broad shoulders and measured countenance of warriors.

As they rode toward the gate, villagers and plainfolk alike swept off their caps as the prince proceeded through. To the damsels that followed, they gave small bows or nods. As they approached the portcullis, two guards stepped forward, one raising a gloved hand.

"Hail, my liege. Welcome once again. May the road have blessed you." Said he, bowing low to Tarquinne. Regarding the outlanders who had rode with them, they gave salute.

"Hail, worthy riders! Come down and be welcomed, if no mischief lies in your hearts."

"Hail, sentinels of the realm!" they returned, the senior of the two outlanders paying the proper courtesies. "Many thanks for your offer of welcome. But our lord commands we return straightaway, once we have seen our charges safely home. We bring word from our master, who sends thanks and good will to your Queen for her treaties and fine gifts."

The sentinels exchanged glances, but returned the courteous heralds of the outlanders. "Will you not tarry for the night? The sun's rays have passed on, and the forest holds many dangers at night. Come, your horses will be well cared for, and you shall have soft beds for your backs."

"Nay, good sirs. Our orders come directly from our lord, and his bow will be 'cross our backs should we disobey. But we greatly look forward to your hospitality during the upcoming tournament. Even in our own lands, we have heard many tales of the revelry during your festivals here. Welcome us on our return, and we shall drink enough mead to stagger the Gods!"

To this, the guards brightened greatly, and shouted hearty goodbyes and kind-hearted jeers as the outlanders turned to head back to their camp. As they passed the prince, they gave low nods, and drew alongside the princess and the maid.

"We have brought you through the wilds by orders of our lord, but should you ever require us; we offer our swords to you both, by our own oaths. May the heaven's keep you safe, until we meet again under the High Moon." The maid and the princess nodded graciously, and watched with heavy hearts as their cheery riding companions headed out under darkening skies.

The prince, the princess and the maid passed though the arched gateway, and led their horse to the stables. Several pages and stablehands ceased their milling about, and went straight to tending the tired horses as they travelers dismounted. One of the older squires informed the princes he was required to make straight for an audience with the Queen.

The princess and the maid, weary from the travel, headed off to their chambers. As they wound their way through the castle, all 'round was a buzz of activity. As they past the vast kitchens, delicious aromas tickled their noses, and their bellies growled loud protests. Along the way, they passed a few of the Queen's ladies-in-waiting, who drilled holes in them with their eyes, but smiled great toothy smiles just the same.

Down they went, round the long spiraling stair, and into the Chamber of Delights, which led to the princess's chambers. They were surprised to see many torches and candles had been lit throughout the vast space, and the princess caught a momentary breath of the heady scent that had overtaken her that first night. Though it touched her nose for only a hairsbreadth, it lit her senses ablaze.

They opened her great wooden door, and fairly collapsed into her chambers. Weary from the road, they both longed for a steaming bath and a deep slumber. They stopped suddenly, both spying their visitor at exactly the same moment.

Their master, the Inquisitor, sat quietly in a great broad-backed chair, his hand folded and raised together to form a point before his lips. His hood lay back 'round his shoulders, and his eyes burned brightly from behind his burnished mask. Though they were both startled to find him waiting in the chamber, perhaps the most shocking part was his rich flowing hair.

It had turned completed white.



The Inquisitor Ch. 21



They stood in shocked silence for many moments before he spoke.

"Good evening, my dears. I am greatly pleased to have you home again." His voice was soft and smooth, but the princess noted a bit of menace underneath. At length, he rose to his feet. For a moment he seemed unsteady, but it passed in an instant, leaving him tall and powerful as she remembered. 

"My lord." They replied, each with a deep bow.

The princess caught another hint of the unknown fragrance, and felt her heart thump deep within her core. The Inquisitor strode to stand before them, his eyes deep and intense, but also kind.

Without a word, the maid unfastened his heavy cloak, and folded it neatly before laying it on an ornate table to the side. He watched her intently as she worked. As she returned to the princess's side, he softly caught hold of her arm, drawing her aside for a moment.

"Are you all right, my flower?" he asked. "I sense a deep change within you." The maid answered, speaking rapidly and soft, but the princess could not make out her words.

At last, he gave a deep sigh, and released her. 

At last Chrysanthemum spoke so that the princess could make out their words.

"Grieve not, my Lord. Have we not known this day would come." The Inquisitor said nothing, his eyes terribly sad behind the mask that hid his face. 

"Too long have I borne this curse alone, my love." said Chrysanthemum. "My strength left me many seasons ago. I loathe the things I must do to endure on. I must become...like her. I must draw my strength from the pleasures of the flesh, else I will fade and go down."

She threw up her hands and mourned. "Oh, if only I had never climbed those darkened stairs with her! If only I'd known what would become of us, I would have stopped her."

Heavy tears spilled down her fair cheeks as she sobbed against him. He consoled her with soft words and held her very gently. 

"And now I must go to her... and she will take me. I knew she would when I granted her the last of me... the last bit of light that remained..." She choked with sobs. "And now all of my goodness has been stolen, and she will take me... and I shall not have the strength to resist. O' what is to become of me, my Lord? How will I escape the darkness once she pulls me down?" The princess heard her say. The maid's voice had taken on a frantic edge.

"Fear not, my dearest love." He said at last. Her tears faded and she calmed beside him. "You and I shall be together... one last time. Take from me all the strength you can. Hold on to what you know is true in your heart. Take my strength, and rise on to the next."

The princess was touched beyond words. She had known the Inquisitor, her master, to be strict and cunning, but here was a tender side she had only glimpsed.

"Shall I leave you, my Lord?" the princess asked. "Surely, take my chambers, and love her as I do."

But the Inquisitor held up his hand. 

"Nay, my princess... It is not safe for you now. I have seen many of the Queen's minions, and they lie in wait for you." The thought chilled the princess.

"You shall remain with us. We shall make it an instruction for you." chimed the maid, whispering something unclear to him.

A sly smile crossed his lip. "You are still the devilish girl I knew, my love. A wonderful idea."

The maid took the princess by the hand and led her to the large chair, usually inhabited by their robed master. The princess sat, and raised her skirts as commanded. She licked her lips, making them glisten and allowed the maid to undo her bodice. Though they did not burst free, her bodice hung open deliciously, and her maid could not resist a playful squeeze of her nipples. The maid blindfolded the princess, bidding her sit back in the sumptuous chair and be at ease.

The princess, her sight deprived, sat still in the master's chair. From within the chambers, she could hear movement, the scrape of boot, the rustle of cloth, the wet sound of kisses.

With her sight restricted, the princess had only her other senses to rely on. She listened as the bed creaked, and she guessed the master and the maid had laid down. She could hear sucklings, wet sounds of mouths on another's. She could hear the smooth sound of skin on skins.

In her mind, she began to imagine what they might be doing. Her nipples grew harder and harder as her thoughts played about in her head. Without a thought, her fingertips began to play with them, and they ached for her soft touches and pinches and tuggings.

From within the room, new sounds emerged, Deep sucking sounds, and soft moans from the Inquisitor. In her mind, she saw the maid, her face buried between his legs, swallowing inch after inch of him. At the thought, she felt her own sex grow hot.

Soft, wet, glump-ing noises reached the princess' ears. In her mind, she saw the maid sucking hard at his enraged cock, licking it, slurping her own wetness from it's thick head. The princess squirmed in the master's chair as she listened to the maid suck his throbbing cock, until at last hot seed shot into her mouth. The princess listened to the maid swallow it down with relish, as the Inquisitor's deep moans subsided.

The princess strained her ears trying to hear more. All was quiet within the chamber for a great while before the princess could make out new sounds, quick slippery sounds. At first she could not place it. It took her a few moments before she recognized the sound of fingers playing about the maid's wet sex.

The princess grew more aroused as she listened to the maid's breathing quicken, to the sound of fingers sliding in and out. In her mind, she picture the maid, taking her master's fingers deep inside her, squirming as they slipped in and out.

The images drove the princess wild, and her own hand dropped to her own wet crescent, revealed when she was ordered to raise her skirtings. Her fingers found herself wet and hot.

Soon the fingerings turned to deep slippery sounds, accompanied by deep and breathy moans from the maid. "Oh yes, my Lord... oh yes, give it to me." heard the princess, and she knew he must be hard again, sliding his big cock into her again and again.

The princess heard lusty questions. "You fucked them all, didn't you..."

"Oh yes, my Lord... their cocks in me all!...Oh fuck it!... sucked so many cocks...their cum my lord..."

"... in your mouth, in my ass... in my pussy man-after-man-in-me, two or three in me...oh fuck it, they fucked me so good!" 

The sound of their dirty talk enflamed the princess even more.

There, in the darkness of her blindfold, the princess slid her fingers in and out to the rhythm of the pair in the bed. As his thrusts became quicker and quicker, her own fingers matched the time. One, two, three, into herself again and again, deeper and deeper as she listened to the maid cry out as her master fucked her.

At last, as the thrusting sounds reached their fever pitch, the maid came. And the master came, As did the princess, all in time, as the room became a chorus of throaty moans.

After many, many moments, the waves subsided, and the princess lay back against the chair panting. She could hear the pair on the bed struggle to regain their breath, and then all was still for a long time, the only sound of breathing and the rustle of cloth.

At last, the princess removed the blindfold. The maid and the Inquisitor spoke quietly as they lay together. Though the princess could not make all of their words, she hear him speak of his love for her, and his regrets for not being strong enough to save her. They spoke for another long while in soft tones, caressing and kissing as they talked.



The Inquisitor Ch. 22



"Very well." said their master at last. "I am afraid you have been summoned. The Queen wishes to see you in her chambers after you have bathed and dressed." With that, he bade her go, looking long after her as she left for the bathing chamber.

When they were alone, the princess marveled at the changes in his appearance. Though she noticed his stock-white hair first, on closer inspection, other differences came to light. For one thing, he seemed almost.... fuzzy.

The princess found she could not even describe the change to her own mind. The fibers of his cloak seemed as though they'd been dragged over sharp rocks, but as she pondered them; they appeared exactly as they had. His mask as well; the golden filigrees seemed faded, though when the light struck them, they gleamed as they always had. The curves of his mouth seemed indistinct, but as he spoke, they curled as they always had.

At last, she could stand it no longer. "What has become of you, my master. What evil has leeched the color from your beard and your hair?" Despite herself, she found her hand reaching up to softly pass though the rich whitened curls. It felt as she remembered, but the look of it filled her with dread.

"Do not trouble yourself, my dear." He spoke, backing away from her gentle touch. "All will be well in time. These last days have been.... taxing."

All at once, his gentle demeanor shifted, and he was once again the imposing Inquisitor. When he turned to face her, his eyes had taken on a hard edge. He looked the princess up and down, seeming to contemplate his next move. As they stood, she could hear the fall of water from the bathing chambers, and in her minds eye, she could envision the maid's supple body exiting the warm waters.

He listened to the soft sounds from the antechamber for a moment, and then turned again to regard the princess.

"So, my princess... You have returned from your errand for our Queen. I trust you found the outlanders...to be good hosts?" His voice was strong and low, his eyes drinking in the sight of her before him. "Our Queen may have sent you to them... but does your bond still belong to me?

"Yes, my lord." she said, bowing her head low.

"Very good, my princess." he hissed. "I know that you went with a fearful heart, but you obeyed as commanded?"

"Yes, my lord. I did all that was asked of me." The princess blushed in spite of herself, remembering the night's revelry, the men before her as she pleasured them one after another. Her coyness was not lost upon the Inquisitor.

"We shall see, my dear." said the Inquisitor thoughtfully. "Our Queen has demanded audience with your beautiful maid, and has commanded me as well."

"Commanded, my lord?"

"Oh yes, princess. You are to be... instructed. Your Queen believes you belong to her now, and she is... jealous, shall we say, of your affections. Though your bond belongs to me now, I cannot say I am above such emotions either."

"Your body belongs to me now, though the Queen believes otherwise, and I may do with it as I please. But I will acknowledge a slight sting when I picture you pleasuring another..." He let the words hang like smoke.

"I have been remiss in your lessons. Other duties have called me away, and I have had to entrust much of your instruction to the lovely Chrysanthemum. Tell me, did you enjoy my machines?"

Again the princess's cheeks burned as she stood before her master. Her body recalled the intense pleasure the Inquisitor's machines had given her, her mind remembering the devices he'd used on her. Though some were more pleasurable than others, their memory triggered an instant arousal within her.

Her eyes still averted, she whispered, "Yes my lord. In truth, I was greatly pleased by them, in spite of myself."

The Inquisitor's eyes sparkled as he heard what he already knew.

"That is good, my princess. Very good."

A slight noise caught their attention, and they turned to find the maid waiting in the alcove. She had bathed and freshened. She was dressed in a long velvet gown of the darkest green. The princess thought it black at first, which surprised her greatly, as she'd never seen Chrysanthemum wear any shade other than green.

Upon seeing her, his demeanor softened again, and he went to her side, speaking softly to her. They spoke quietly, and the again the princess could not make out their words. Suddenly, he cried out in rage.

"No! I shall not allow it!" But the maid soothed him with soft words and caressed his masked face. Thought the princess could scarce believe it, she thought she could see tears in his eyes.

At last, the Inquisitor's shoulders sank, and he allowed her to pass. The maid wiped her own tears, and straightening, drew very close to the princess, who looked on in great confusion.

"What is happening, my love?" began the princess, but the maid silenced her with a soft finger pressed to her full lips.

"Fear not for me, my love." said Chrysanthemum. "This night has been on the horizon for a very long time. I have no doubt our Queen has dire plans for me. I may be sent away for a time... but know that I have loved you for longer than you know. I leave you in the care of our master... who loves you as well."

"He may be a strict master, but in time you will know the whole of his design. For now, remember your oaths, both to him and your own. Break them not, for all our sakes!"

Large tears welled up in her bright green eyes as she spoke, but she paid them no heed.

"Obey, my love." she continued. "Hold to the oaths you have sworn, no matter what occurs."

The princess could stand no more, her own eyes heavy with tears. "No, my love! Stay with me!"

The maid gently touched her face and stroked the princess's hair. "Alas, my dear princess. I cannot. My destiny lies down a different path. It has steadily approached since you arrived here. I have given you all I can. Trust me when I say... we may see each other again in another life!"

Before the princess could protest, she turned on her heel, and left the chamber in silence.

- - -

For a long time, all was silence within her bedchambers. She stood looking after Chrysanthemum, the Inquisitor slowly pacing back and forth. It seemed an eternity before either was ready to speak.

At last, it was he who broke the quiet.

"Weep no more, my princess." he said kindly. "The events of this night were set in motion long before either of us came to this realm. Chrysanthemum and our Queen have unfinished business between them, and it is beyond either you... or I."

The princess stifled back tears, gazing upon her master with unspoken questions.

"Is there nothing to be done, my master?" she asked at last.

"The tempest approaches, my lady." he said softly. "Neither tears nor rage could restrain it."

"I know of the revelry the two of you enjoyed on your excursion." said He, deciding upon a necessary change of subject. "And we shall address that in a while. But first, there are other things I must know. During your time with the outlanders.... Did you happen to meet anyone... anyone other than warriors?"

The princess caught the back-handed barb, but saw through to its real meaning.

"Why, yes my lord." She replied. "Other than the warriors," a small coy smile. "I met a very old man. We spoke well into the small hours of the night."

"Ah..." said the Inquisitor, drawing the sound out long. "You spoke with Syr Va'ahl , did you?

"You know him, my lord?" she asked.

"Oh yes, my princess. I know him well." His voice sounded far off, and for a moment, the ring of steel upon steel and desperate cries sounded in her ears. "If he travels with them... Then the outlanders do know of our King's fate. Yes, that answers much. Now, girl... tell me everything you spoke of."

The princess began to recount the plan that the old man had laid before her. Though she knew the Inquisitor was known throughout the land to be the Queen's loyal enforcer, her own experience told her otherwise. The strong talisman he had hung 'round her neck before her last audience with the Queen reinforced her trust in him. Though she did not know the entirety of his plan, one thing was certain. Even if he professed undying devotion to Her Majesty, he was definitely not on her side.

He listened intently as the princess laid down Syr Va'ahl's plot. When she had finished, he sat quietly for a time, hands folded before his chin as he had when they'd first arrived in her chambers.

"A good plan..." he murmered. Looking up at the princess, he asked pointedly. "And do you still have the item he secretly gave you?"

A moment's hesitation, and then, "Yes, my lord. I carried it safe from their camp hidden in my bodice."

A sly smile slipped across his mouth when she mentioned "bodice," but he quickly returned to the subject at hand.

"Excellent, my princess. Use it at first light. Do not attempt to use it during the hours of darkness, or it will betray you. Discover all that you can. You must solve the riddle, else the plot will fail and all our kinsmen will be slain."



The Inquisitor Ch. 23



With a heavy heart, Chrysanthemum made her way across the open courtyard. What had once been bustling with activity was now nearly deserted. The watchfires along the battlements had been lit, and guards patrolled in silence along the upper walk.

As she reached the arched entryway, the great clock began to toll. The maid took a long look over her shoulder, casting her gaze upwards towards the darkened tower behind her. High up, from the room under the eaves, bright bluish light spilled out from spaces in the thatching and chinks in the mortar. Taking a deep sigh, she turned back and entered the Queen's tower.

Up and up she climbed. She ran her fingers lightly against the curved walls as she climbed, a tiny jolt of energy radiating up her arm each time they touched one of the golden runes and filigrees inlaid into them. A intervals she would cross in front of an arrow port or window, and each time she would cast another glance up to the lighted room in the dark tower.

At last she reached the top of the smooth curving stairs. Before her lay the Queen's chambers. Squaring her shoulders and smoothing her gown, she threw her head back and strode resolutely towards her destiny.

As she made he way through the anterooms, soft tinkling music greeted her ears. Coming at last to the Queen's bedchamber, she saw many long tapered candles had been lit in lanterns of red glass. All around flickered deep red light, playing on the stone walls, scampering among the shadows and niches.

There before her lay several of the Queen's ladies in waiting. All were naked or nearly so, their skin flushed and hot. Against their throats, their bond-stones glowed dark red. They all smiled the sweetest smiles to the maid as she entered, purring like cats. Their eyes glowed faintly in the soft glow of the candle lanterns, and they burned her with their stares.

Above them, stretched out upon her massive bed lay the Queen against her mountain of pillows. She was neither clothed nor dressed. She wore a shimmery blue robe of sorts, but it hung loose about her; her perfect breasts unencumbered beneath it. She seemed at first not to notice the maid, instead absently brushing her nipples softly with her fingertips.

At last, she regarded Chrysanthemum with cold eyes. When she smiled, her teeth stood out sharp and white against her pale porcelain skin. Her wet pink tongue flicked momentarily across her full lips, and in almost a whisper, she welcomed her new arrival.

"Good evening... my sister."

- - -

The Inquisitor looked up from his thoughts as the chimes of the great clock tolled deeply throughout the castle. All at once, his demeanor shifted again, no longer the hushed conspirator, now he once again became dominant.

"Oh, my..." he toned. "The hour has grown late. We have become lost in our talk, you and I. There is still much to do. I have forgotten my task, it seems."

He stood and gathered up his robes. "Come, my princess... there is still another matter we must attend. Had you forgotten?"

Truthfully, the princess had forgotten all about his earlier promises. The departure of Chrysanthemum, the retelling of the plot, they had crowded all other thoughts from her head.

"Surely you did not think I would not attend to your lessons, my dear," he said, the sly grin returning to his lips. "You have gone wandering, and now you must be punished."

"But, my lord," protested the princess. "You yourself gave me your blessing" Told me to go as the Queen directed!"

"Yes..." said He. "I know... but instructed you shall be, just the same. Remove your gown, now!"

The princess stared at the Inquisitor in disbelief. How could he still plan to seduce her after all that had happened? But as she stared, the strange fragrance came over her, much stronger that the wisps before, and she swooned. The delicious scent, the chiming of the great clock, all at once crashed upon her. Her knees weakened, and her loins grew hot and anxious.

Her cheeks flamed as he stood watching her. She felt angry with herself for succumbing to the tricks of the chimes and the wonderful fragrance. Her defiance rose, until she remembered the words of her maid, and the oaths she'd sworn. At last she gave herself over to her mounting desire and began to undress as he watched with bright eyes.

"Ah, still dusty from your travel." He noted as she stood nude before him. "Naughty... but then again, I did not give you much chance to refresh, did I?"

"No, my lord." was her reply. He noted the sharp edge in her tone, but let it pass.

"Naughty... and willful too, I see." Said he. "I will not punish you for being weary from the road... but... your insolence... tsk tsk"

Though his words threatened, his eyes reassured her. She returned his intent stare, standing squared before him as she'd done that first time. A smiled crossed his face, before he quickly made a show of trying to appear menacing.

"Hold out your hands together before you." He commanded in a quiet voice.

The princess obeyed, her eyes on his. Gone was the vagueness of his appearance. Now he stood out sharp and crisp. His masked nearly gleamed, and even his hair seemed to have regained some of its dark color, but only by degrees.

She held her hands out in front, and from his robe with took a long, thick ribbon of deep blue silk. Gently, he bound her hands together, not painfully, but still tight. Taking the long end, he silently turned and led her from her rooms into the adjoining Chamber of Delights.

- - -

The maid stood motionless before the assembled women in the Queen's chamber. Her head proudly held high, her eyes locked directly on the Queen's.

"And good evening to you, my sister." She said coldly. "It has been many season since you've spoken such a truth. I find myself amazed you could manage it." Icy hate dripped from her words.

"On such a night, shared secrets no need for a hiding place, do they?" came the equally barbed reply.

The maid gazed round the chamber. "And have you invited your demons to witness our game? Have you grown so distant, that you leave the wet work to your minions?" To this, they hissed in angry disapproval. 

"How dare you speak to your Queen in such a manner!" spat one of her ladies.

The Queen silenced the woman with a hard smack on her bottom. "Quiet, slattern!" she hissed. "She is my blood! She may speak freely to me, and none here shall hinder her." The woman cowed before the Queen, all the while stinging the maid with hateful eyes.

The Queen silenced them. "My dearest Chrysanthemum... How could you believe I mean you any harm?" She spoke soothingly, her words dipped in sincerity. "I thought it might be a nice treat, to have us all be together... perhaps a little recreation before the festivals and tournaments begin... before the Rite of the High Moon."

The maid saw through the veil of love the Queen laid before her. Her mind rang with cries of heated passion and hot flesh, of moans and caresses. She shook them away. Crysanthemum frowned, her mind flashing from fight to flight, and back again.

"I have not forgotten the last time we... were all together." hissed the maid, gesturing to the ladies-in-waiting lounging the Queen's bedchamber and upon her great bed. "As I remember it, t'was not such a treat for me." she said, remembering the huge implements the Queen had used upon her before.

The Queen smiled an innocent smile, and her ladies giggled and batted their eyes, some drawing close to each other to touch and play with soft but urgent touches. Though they kissed and played about her, their eyes remained steady upon the maid.

"Hmph." Said the Queen in mock indignation. "My dear sister;" her words drawing out long, the hiss of snakes. "You know as well as I that you enjoyed every minute of it."

She lay back against her giant mound of pillows, arms stretched out over their tops, her eyes regarding the maid with cold fire. Two of her ladies sidled in close under her outstretched arms, laying their heads against the Queen, their soft fingers playing lightly with her hardened nipples.

Outside, a distant peal of thunder sounded. As the Queen continued to regard the maid, she suffered the ladies to caress her body, both of them desperate for even a word of praise from her. 

"Speaking of enjoying yourself, my love..." the Queen said at last. "That is one of the reasons I have summoned you here. What of your journey the outlanders? A full report, my dear." 

Her words spoke sweet, but her eyes confirmed they were not mere suggestion, but in fact a command.



The Inquisitor Ch. 24



The Inquisitor led the princess along a winding path through the Chamber of Delights, past machines she'd experienced before, and many unknown ones as well. Strange devices, wheels and gear; she could not even fathom their purpose, other than pleasure. All of the devices in this room had but one purpose.

At last he led to a large wooden frame. It was roughly rectangular, its height a bit taller than a man and about as wide, with two large rings suspended below its top crossbeam at each end. At each base near the stone floor hung two more large iron rings. 

The princess could imagine their purpose quick enough. He came close and unbound the silk 'round her wrists, before gently retying it again around her right. She allowed him to raise her hand above her head, and be tied by the soft, satiny restraint to the upper ring.

As he secured her arm, she became aware of how close his strong frame was to her naked body. She could feel his warm breath against her skin as he worked. From a nearby place he brought two more thick silk ties, and drawing her legs very wide apart, he bound each of her feet to it's neighboring ring, so that she stood, legs apart, her arm raised up and hung from the ring above. Her other hand hung loosely by her side, and she softly slid it across smooth skin of her belly as she watched him. 

He stood back for a moment, as if admiring his work. She returned his intense gaze until his thoughts locked on a missing piece. From his robes he drew another silk, this one dark; very wide and very long. He folded its width several times, making a thick silk cord, which he tied around her eyes as a blindfold without a word.

He stepped back again, taking in the sight of her, legs spread wide and unashamed, her sex bare and hungry. His eyes traveled down her arm bound tight to the frame, down to her swollen and erect nipples, her free hand curling soft around her left breast.

As she stood bound in the frame, her sight cut off by the smooth silk blindfold, her other senses came alive. She could hear the soft sound of his breathing, not far away, hear the faint scritch-scratch of his boots upon the stone floor. Her skin felt the cool tickle of the night air upon it, and her nipples stood out long and hard. She could smell again the beautiful fragrance filling her body with its wonderous bouquet.

She could see nothing, so instead she listened intently, trying to make out what her master was up to. Time seemed to stretch out for what seemed an eternity. At last she heard the soft rustle of his robes and felt him draw very, very close to her. 

"It is time for your lesson." He whispered, close by her ear. "Are you prepared? You know that I must punish you a bit, for your.... willfulness?"

"Yes, my lord." came her reply. 

"Very well." Said He. 'I have watched you many times... when your chimes sound, I have enjoyed seeing you give yourself pleasure." The princess again wondered how he could have seen her, but let waves of anticipation wash over her body, knowing delight lay soon ahead.

"I have restrained the hand you use so often." He whispered, his hands softly running down its suspended length. "But I have left the other free... Indeed, I have left it free for you to pleasure yourself."

In the darkness as he spoke in her ear, her free hand slid across her breasts, lightly tweaking her nipple. From nowhere, a sharp smack across her bare bottom. So sudden and quick, she let out a startled gasp.

In her ear again, this time his body so close she could feel the folds of his robes against her bare skin. She could also feel his huge member pressed against her 'neath them.

"I have left your sinister hand free, but you may not use it until I allow it. Do you understand?"

When she did not reply quickly enough, another sharp spank upon her bottom, accompanied by a pinch of one of her hardened nipples. His touches were rough and potent, but not dealt with malice or hurt. A small moan escaping her open lips as she responding to them.

"Yes, my lord." She replied, nuzzling her naked, suspended body against his hardness, a lusty smile on her lips. Another spank, and another, her bottom growing warm and stinging. She squirmed as he spanked her, her sex becoming aroused.

"I know you pleasured those men... the outlanders.... Kinsmen of the king... did you not?" he whispered again in her ear, his mouth very close. His large hand rested on her stinging bottom, caressing its smarting cheeks.

"Yes, my lord." She breathed.

"Tell me what you did, princess."

"I obeyed, my lord. I did as was commanded." She cied. Another spank, another pinch of the nipple.

"Yes, I know that you did." He whispered, his body close. "Tell me what you did, princess. Did you take them into your mouth." His thick finger rolled across her lips, and she opened them to softly suck on it before it withdrew.

"Yes, my lord. I took them all in... All that was offered!" Another rough spank, her cheeks red and angry.

"Yesss." He whispered. "You took their cocks, did you not... sucked them?"

"Oh yes, my lord." Her voice grew dusky, her mind flashing on the cocks before your waiting mouth. "I swallowed them, my master... took all of their lengths into my mouth, as deep as they chose."

"Tell me what you did, princess." He breathed.

"I drank them, my master! I swallowed all they gave... tasted their seed upon my tongue and in my mouth! I let them burst forth upon my breasts and face and in my mouth and down my throat." Her body writhed against him as she recounted the tale.

"Yesss..." he whispered, his mouth so close to her ear in the darkness. His hand slid down behind her, sliding up her inner thigh.

"You sucked them all, didn't you princess? You took their cocks? Yes... you liked them in your mouth, didn't you?" His breath was ragged, and his words urgent next to her. His hand slid between her spanked bottom, his fingers finding her from behind.

"Oh, yes my lord!" she cried, her hips squirming as he probed her gently with a finger, pressing gently, seeking entrance. "I took them all... into my mouth, my lord!" she moaned.

He slid a finger into her as he breathed upon her naked skin. She could feel his huge cock raging against it's covering, a hard pole against her as he slid his finger farther into her from behind, filling her.

""Ah, Oh!" she moaned, as he slid it nearly out, and then steadily back in deeper. Yes, my lord! I tasted them all... their cocks so big in my mouth!"

A rustle, his body grew closer, his finger deeper, and she could feel his own cock bare against her skin now. She could feel its heat against her, and felt his other hand slide down to grasp it, all the while fingering her from behind.

"Yess... my princess..." he moaned as he pulled himself against her. "And did they ram you, my love... did you allow them entry?"

"Ah, ah.. oh!" she moaned as another finger joined the first, sliding insistent into her. She balled her fist against her side, restraining the overwhelming urge to touch herself as his fingers filled her from behind.

"No, my lord." She moaned, breathless, as her hips began to push back harder against his hand, pushing his big fingers deeper.

"Only their hands, my lord... only their cocks and my mouth and their fingers oh yes oh yes!" she cried, 

"Touch yourself!" he commanded, She gladly obeyed, her hand quickly finding her wet sex, her fingers flying on her sopping clit as he continued to finger her rear, pulling his cock against her thigh.

The pleasure within her grew, her hips bucking against his fingers, her own fingers seeking out her pleasure. At last she could withstand it now longer, climaxing, gushing onto her frantic digits. As she orgasmed, she felt his hot seed spurt against her thigh, her legs, her hand. She felt it thick and hot on her skin, and she smiled wide, knowing she had pleasured him just as well as herself.

- -

The maid gathered her courage as she began her tale. The ladies-in-waiting continued to play and coo and kiss and love each other. At last the maid reached the point in the story when the revelry began, and all paid rapt heed, even the Queen.

"You sent us as gifts, my Queen. And we obeyed. The outlanders will not soon forget your... generosity."

"Tell me of the sport, my dear." Hissed the Queen, her teeth pointy and white. Outside, the thunder grew closer and louder.

"We did as commanded, my Queen. The Prince offered us as currency, and they took us both."

Head held high, the maid told the tale, how the men had ravaged her. How they had taken her, two, three at a time. She told how she had taken them, taken their cocks in her mouth, felt them slide up into her from behind, and then another in front. She told of two cocks inside her wet sex at one time, cocks against her skin, hot white seed spurting upon her. She told them of cocks in her mouth, how she greedily sucked them. 

The ladies-in-waiting squirmed against each other, fingers disappearing into one another, mouths on hard nipples, pointed tongues against tongues. The woman the Queen had chastised slid their fingers into the Queen, and sucked greedily at her breasts as the maid spoke. Their moans and squeals rose in time with her words.

Outside the air quaked with cracks of thunder, and within the chamber, it took on a crackling electricity.

"And what of your ward?" purred the Queen, her juices wetting the fingers of her ladies in waiting as she stared lustily at the maid.

"She obeyed as well, my Queen. On her knees she took every man who came to stand before her. Deep she swallowed their members, and drank from them."

To this they all responded with moans of pleasure, the Queen spreading her legs further, so they could slide in more fingers as she heard the maid's account. The thunder outside boomed as if to break the very stone walls. The ladies-in-waiting shrieked as they brought each other to quivering heights of pleasure. 

- -

As her breathing subsided, she felt him return his swollen member within his robes, and felt her bond at her feet loosened. She felt her wrist untied, and it fell quick and heavy to her side. At last, he removed her blindfold, and she stood blinking in the soft light of the Chamber. Even in the torch and candlelight, she could see his hair had darkened considerably, still streaked with greys and lights, but no longer shock-white.

He moved away, adjusting his robes, eyes watching her. As he beheld her, a strange whim struck her thoughts, and in a smooth motion, she gathered up his seed on her finger, and brought it to her lips. With a sly smile, she popped her finger into her mouth, drawing it out clean.

The Inquisitor was so surprised, he could not help himself, bursting forth with a hearty laugh. The princess found she greatly enjoyed it. 

"Princess," he said. "You are indeed a remarkable woman. Surprising, as well." He added.

The princess smiled, and he helped her down from the wooden frame, wrapping a warm cloak around her. He guided her back to her bedchamber, pulling the door behind them.

He busied himself as she withdrew to the bathing chamber. She cleaned herself quickly with a damp rag, preferring to return for a hot bath after he'd retired. Returning to the chamber, she found him just closing an ornate chest. The princess could not remember a time when it had ever been unlocked before.

He motioned her to the bed, where she sat, wrapping herself in a warm blanket. From the chest, he produced a beautiful bottle of deep blue liquid.

"Remember what I told you though." He asked. "Do not seek to find any answers during the hours of darkness. Do you promise"

Still very confused, she agreed as he unstoppered the pretty blue bottle, pouring a dram of liquid into a small cup.

"You must drink this, my princess. This night will be long, and you must gather strength. You will need it when..." His voice trailed off, as though he could not bring himself to finish.

The princess waited, at last draining the liquid from the small cup. In an instant, her eyes grew heavy, and she felt so terribly sleepy, though she wanted desperately to stay awake. So many questions she wished to ask him swirled about her mind. 

"In the morning, do not tarry!" he warned. "Start straightaway! Even if you.... feel that you cannot go on."

"But why, my lord?" she yawned. She wanted to ask why she would not want to go on, what would happen, where had Chrysanthemum gone... but she felt herself slipping further and further under, until she knew no more.

- - -

All was still within the Queen's chambers as the maid finished her tale, save for the increasing thunder and gale outside the stone walls. The Queen and her minions listened full to the tale. 

The Queen smiled, deep in though. Through her mind swirled images of the maid, on the tent floor, taken from all sides, on her knees before the Chieftain, the spurting of so many men. A long shudder ran down her, and she delighted in the maid's delicious humiliation. She complimented her on such a fine job, and her ladies in waiting begrudgingly acknowledged the feat as well.

"Tell me, my dearest Chrysanthemum, my lovely sister... what did you feel as those men took you. Tell me how they felt inside you. Tell me how it made you feel to be sent as a gift to those outlanders."

The maid's cheeks darkened, and her nipples grew hard in spite of herself as she recalled the sport. 

"I felt... I felt ashamed at first. Just as you would have me feel, my Queen. But only at first. Once it began, I felt nothing... nothing but power! Power over the men, though they believed my body was merely for their use. I felt my own power, as I stroked them... milked them, making them cry out over and over again... Power, my sister... That is what I felt."

This seemed to please the Queen greatly. "Yes, my sister! What have I proclaimed to you for so very long. All of this power can be yours as well. Had you only accepted it before, we could have ruled this land together!"

"I know of the power you speak, my Queen." Answered the maid. "But you misunderstand me... Though I could have, I tasted them not. The power felt within me, was all women's power over men... How they think they dominate us, but in each of us lies that very same strength and power over them."

"You... you tasted them not?" The Queen seemed completely baffled by the maid's words. "That cannot be. How could you resist it? Those men, any of them... you could have drained all of them, returned to us as powerful as I! Do you mean to say you returned without a single drop of their strength?"

The Queen grew vexed, and outside the thunder crackled harder. She swatted away the minion who clutched at her bosom. The woman drew back, her hand to her broken lip. The Queen drew herself up, alighting from the great bed and cinching her robe 'round her middle as she approached the maid.

"Can it be you returned without their strength?" she whispered to the maid, slowly pacing round her still form. "Surely you are not that foolish, my sister? It is not possible. I know you to be wise... I know what is in your heart."

"It cannot be..." the Queen continued. "You must have taken something, else your beauty would not have held as it is. You cannot hide from me, sister. I know how many seasons we have passed... and I know you gave me your last! I tasted it when I took your last drop. Without it, you cannot endure. You must have taken something."

The maid smiled. "Yes, my Queen. I took from them men who accompanied us here. The outlander chief sent them as guards, and I tasted them on the road here."

"Ah..." sighed the Queen. "I knew you must have! I knew you would drain them, to save what little time you have!"

"No, my Queen. They live... they live and are strong and young still. I took from them only what I needed. Try as you might, I shall not become like you."

To this last, the Queen's face burned in fury. She dealt the maid an angry backhand blow, sending her nearly crashing to the floor. Recovering, the maid stood tall once again, her face red and stinging.

"You fool!" the Queen shouted. "How dare you return without their strength? You know what lies ahead for you, do you not?"

She looked upon the maid with disgust. "It is not even sporting now. You have no chance to equal me... to challenge me! Curse you, my wretched sister. I can see now I was right to usurp your throne. What a Queen you would have made. A Queen indeed!" Another blow, the sound of flesh striking flesh. The maid staggered but for an instant, before rising tall again.

Outside, the thunder broke again, and for a moment, the Queen's fury seemed to slacken. The maid caught a glimmer of compassion and love and confusion in her sister's eyes. If only for the briefest moment.

"It has not always been this way, my love." Spoke the maid, her voice just above a whisper. "Do you not remember how it once was? How it was before jealousy burned your heart black?"

The Queen turned away, unwilling to hear her. From the bed, the ladies in waiting watched and waited.

"We loved each other once, my sister. So long ago. Do you not remember how we played amongst the fields? The cool of the waterfalls, the breath of wind... Do you not remember? How can you be filled with such contempt for me?"

All at once, it seemed the spell was broken. The Queen turned back to regard her sister. Gone was the softness, any hint of caring, now only darkness burned in her eyes.

"Contempt? Contempt you say? No, my sister... not merely contempt. I loathe you. And you wish to know its beginning? The Queen slowly circled the maid, speaking so softly only Chrysanthemum could hear her.

"It has always been!" she said at last. "Since we were but babes. It has always been you, dear one. I was first-borne! It should all have been my birthright!"

"It was you... first to be loved, first to be regarded. T'was you who was first to be inducted into the Priestesses! Fie! It should have all been mine! I was first-borne!"

The Queen grew angrier as she slowly circled the maid, lashing out with her words.

"Usurper! Upstart! Second-borne! How dare you ask from where my hatred springs! You have been a thief of mine inheritance since the day you came into this world! It was I who protected you from THEM! It was I who soothed them with my own body, while you received hardly the slightest blow, even as I bled and pleaded for mercy from their hungry lust... t'was I who bore the brunt!"

"But do you know when I began to plot your demise, my dearest one? T'was not when you begged the priestesses for my entry into the sisterhood... t'was not when your skills caught their eyes."

"T'was not even when you stole Him from me... no, my little one." The queen's eyes glittered like jewels.

"T'was when your son was crowned royal... on the very day my own perished!"



The Inquisitor Ch. 25



How long had he been in this place. How long had it been since his eyes beheld light? Days, years? Time had lost all meaning to him. His world was all darkness, a tiny ledge above a bottomless pit.

Why do you not kill me? He screams into the void. Better to die under the sword than suffer such isolation. He screams and screams until there is no sound.

He collapsed against the smooth stone behind him, tears of despair flowing free. In his mind, the idea of stepping into the black, the great fall into the great beyond... To his mind, it seems more and more appealing. 

It was at his lowest ebb, that a new sound reached his ear. It is laughter. Laughter! Not the gentle kind laughter of a child or friend. No. The reproachful coughing cackle of mockery.

It echoes out of the darkness, seeming to come from the very pit itself. 

Who's there? He commands, only to be greeted by another coughing chuckle.

Scream all you like! Smiles the voice from the dark. T'will not avail you...

All is silence and darkness. Think you the only wretch here in this desolation? asks the voice. Think you the only Forgotten?

Who's there! He commands, on his feet, fist out before him. 

Heh, heh. Echos the voice. Look at you! Fool! Think you to leap across this void... to pummel me with your bare fists?

As the voice speaks, a small spark of blue light leaps out in the black. A tiny round orb of light. In the blue flame he could make out a shape. As the flame rolled about in a blue-silver ball above his fingertip, the shape resolved into a man. In an instant he could distinguish the person, a man of age, but not dottered. 

He was broad shouldered, but bent by starvation and neglect. He inhabited a ledge just like his own, on the other side of a great chasm separating them. 

Who... who are you? He asks of his new-found neighbor.

I am Syr-va-ahl. At your service. Stand not amazed, my fellow... we share a wretched place, from which there is no escaping. Not alone at least.

Escape! The word rang in his ears like a talisman. Escape... to flee this horrible pit, to wage vengeance upon his captors... to once again see his homeland and his love.

He begs his new friend to tell him how, to show him the way up the sheer face of the wall behind him, or some safe path down to the floor below. Another round of mocking laughter is all that is returned.

Climb? Ha!... says the man. I have been here for a very long time... and have watched in silence as many who have stood upon you side have tried that very thing... only to fall to their death. The craftsman who built this place of forgetting were very... steadfast. They did their duty too well. Even if you could find foothold enough to climb... many measures above, and the same below, the rock has been shaved smooth, so you may climb no further. After a while of hanging, unable to go up or down, their strength always gives out... they always fall... no one can escape here by climbing!

He slumped down against the smooth wall in depair.

Then there is no hope. He sighs, forlorn.

Fool! spits the man from across the chasm. There is ALWAYS a path. If you remember nothing I teach you here, remember that!

No, my new friend, you cannot escape by climbing. The only escape must come from a long rope lowered down.

No-one will let down a rope for us... they have left us here to perish!

The man across the divide cackles with glee. He reaches down his hand to a small pile of black sand, gathering it up in his fist; holding it out for him to see, tiny grains of darkness slipping through his outstretched fingers. 

No one will lower it to you... of that you can be sure! Ah... but with what I will teach thee... you will lower it to yourself!

- - -

The Queen's eyes flickered in the lamps of her chambers, all the while circling the still Chrysanthemum.

"Your son perished not by my hands, sister!" answered the maid. "He died by your own. Your own milk poisoned him... poisoned like your own heart, by the evil you invited in!"

"Silence!" cried the Queen. "Do you think I know nothing of your spells? The companion who dwells within me was not my son's undoing. T'was your own jealousy!"

The Queen voice had risen, her words low and dire. Outside, the tempest howled with frightening strength.

"You knew I loved Him from the first! You could never stand for me to have something so fine. You coveted him,. Though he loved me first!"

"You.... My dearest sister," spat the Queen, her words filled with venom. "You coveted Him. And you beguiled Him... to think He would have ever chosen you as His bride!" She threw back her head and issued an evil laugh.

"Beguiled, my sister?" spoke the maid "It was you who beguiled him. You who took him in our very bed... you who fondled and caressed him with your spells, your magick chants, your foul mouth."

The Queen would brook no more insolence, dealing her another tremendous blow, this one sending her spilling to the floor against the great bed. From above, the ladies in waiting clawed and pinched and pulled at her until she broke away.

"Desperate times, my love." Whispered the Queen. "I knew you bore his child within you... another birthright gone! So... I may have used my charms, to take his seed and conceive a child of mine own... but it was my birthright! I was first-borne"

The maid could feel another blow coming, but at the last second, the Queen reigned in her fury, returning to a calm façade.

"The child you took from Him was not conceived in love, but in deceit." Softly spoke Chrysanthemum. 

"Perhaps, my dearest." replied the Queen. "But nevertheless, I would have him be King!"

"Yes, I know that is what you desired most, my sister." replied the maid. "Your jealousy would never permit me to sit upon the throne, to raise up a mighty king. Your black heart knew he would see you for what you were. He would have banished you!"

"Banished?" chuckled the Queen. "My dear sister... was it not you who were banished? She laughed so sweetly, but so hollow.

"Yes, my love. I took from Him a child, just as you did, with your second-borne, prudish sex. In me He could have fulfilled any fantasy, no request would I have denied Him. But you beguiled Him. Never did you grant Him the pleasure I gave him... So many times he cried out... forsaking you... He told me how you could not please him, how you never did!"

The Queens words stung her more than any blow could. For so long, Chrysanthemum had held on to the strong belief that He had loved her from the first, and that his heart had never been truly won by her. Her tears betrayed her darkest fears.

The Queen seized them and tore them further open. "Oh yes, my love. We shared so many laughs about your skills."

Drawing very close to the maid, she whispered into her ear. "He never loved you... not as he did me. It is no wonder he allowed you to be thrown down. In all this time, has He ever climbed down from His dark resting place to save you? No... He has allowed your humiliation... He delights in your instruction in pleasure... He laughs at you, all covered in the hot seed of other men, licking it with your impotent mouth. You never pleased Him as I did."

The Queen grabbed the maid roughly by the arm, yanking her to her feet.

"I know what is in your heart, my sister. I know of your schemes... trying to overthrow me. You are powerless against me. You are merely a plaything. A plaything I have grown exceedingly tired of!"

As she spoke, the Queen threw the maid upon the massive bed. All at once, her ladies in waiting pounced upon her. They harshly kissed and suckled and tore away her clothes as she desperately tried to escape them.

The Queen opened her robe and let it slip to the floor. Her naked body gleamed in the lantern-light. Slowly she made her way up the bed toward the struggling maid. Her ladies in waiting held her down tight, some locking their hot mouths onto her wrists, her breasts, her ankles.

At last, their strength overwhelmed her, pinning her to the firm mattress below. All at once, she ceased struggling, looking up at the Queen. The Queen smiled sweetly, standing tall over her, her long legs straddling either side of the maid's torso.

Slowly, she reached down and tore away the green bond-stone adorning the maid's neck. She held it up close, inspecting it with a sly smile.

"You see, my sister. Your feeble magick is no match for mine own." With a flick of the wrist, she flung the green stone far out into the raging tempest outside.

The ladies in waiting drew the maid's legs apart. Further and further they pried them, till her sex was completely exposed and open. Ever so slowly, the Queen sank to her knees till she was sitting upon the maid, just below her round breasts.

Ever so slowly, she sank down to kiss Chrysanthemum's neck, her chest... down her belly she sank, lighting small hot kisses upon her skin. The ladies-in-waiting held her, their mouths locked on her, sucking so hard the maid was sure her skin would bruise and blister.

At last the Queen reached the wide spread legs of the maid. She held her bright glowing eyes on the maid's, and ever so slowly, her mouth locked upon her wet sex. Her mouth clamped upon her like a great vise. All at once, the maid could feel her mouth pulling on her from below... sucking so hard, so very hard. 

Though she tried to resist, she could feel it pulling, like the suction of heavy waves at the sea's edge before a storm. She felt her self grow dim, felt her essence drain... pulling and pulling and pulling so hard upon her... she felt her Self drain, sinking downward towards the Queen's hungry mouth.

Downward... deeper... and at last... darkness. 



The Inquisitor Ch. 26



The princess awoke with such a start that she nearly tumbled off the side of her bed onto the cold stone floor. Her head swam with the remnants of the strangest dream. Her mind struggled to recapture it as it drained out into the waking world. She could not help but feel strange, as if the dream had come from the outside, instead of her own mind.

She sat up, gathering the blankets around her naked form. She looked about for Chrysanthemum, but noted her side of the bed had not been slept in. In an instant, the events of the preceding night rushed in upon her. Though she called out for the maid, her heart knew there would be no answer.

Somehow, she knew she was gone. It was as if a piece of her own mind was missing, though she'd never noticed it before. A hollow dull spot in her mind; the site of a strange connection to her lovely Chrysanthemum, now somehow seemed severed.

She bit her lip and fought back bitter tears. Though she wept silently, her resolve doubled, her own oaths strengthened, She pulled the blankets and furs tight around her, gathering her will to her.

After a time, she calmed, and her tears slowly faded. She thought on the old man's strategem, retraced the steps she should take. She sought to tie all of the tiny threads she had discovered in her time with Chrysanthemum and her master into a solid line. A hundred directions branched out, and reformed as she contemplated the little information she had.

At last she slid from her bed, pulling a soft blanket with her, wrapping it over her breasts. She paced for a few moments, trying to decide what tangent to follow, before padding softly into the bathing chamber. Again, a deep sadness washed over her. No warm bath awaited her, no supple maid and her delights before her, only empty space, cold tile and stone. Shaking these tragedies away, she made for a small rounded niche in the far wall.

The niche was small, and concave at its back, just large enough to hold a lantern. She examined the floor of the niche, checking carefully for any signs of disturbance. One of the bricks composing the base of the niche had a broken corner, its missing edge just large enough for a woman's fingertip to barely grasp. Catching hold of it's corner, she wiggled the brick until it slid out of it's row with a grating sound. Behind the brick lay a small hollow, not very deep or wide. Within the hollow lay a small object, wrapped in muslin. She quickly retrieved it and returned the brick, concealing the clandestine hollow.

She hurried from the bathing chamber, fearful somehow someone may have observed her. She returned to the bed and unwrapped the object given her by the old man at the outlander's camp. Lying in her pal, surrounded by aged muslin, was a small iron key, bearing a strange seal at its standard which she did not recognize. She stared down at it for a time, deciding upon her next move.

- - -

Very gradually did she perceive a familiar sound. Though she had failed to notice them, the sound of chimes reached her ears. She was surprised she had not noticed them, as she usually was struck by them with such potency that she could scarce contain herself.

How could this be? Had she become so accustomed to her chimes that she noticed them not? As she listened, she discovered the chimes were very faint, almost whispers. A momentary anger boiled up within her, thinking how indeed cruel the master must be to sound her chimes of pleasure so soon after their devastating loss of Chrysanthemum.

But as she listened, she began to discern these chimes were not the same as her own. These particular notes held a much higher register, and intoned much quicker than the ones she obeyed. 

All at once, images streamed unbidden inter her mind. All around the upper portions of the castle, women were obeying the chimes. In rooms lined with silks, in chambers of stone, in bathing tubs similar to her own, the women of the castle were obeying the chimes. These chimes were for them, yet she had never heard them before, nor could she account for the flood of sensual thoughts which ran through her mind. All over the castle, women had begun to pleasure themselves, in so many ways, as the chimes sounded.

The princess marveled that she was not so affected as they. When her own chimes sounded, she found it impossible to disobey, so strong was the yearning they produced. So it was with the women of the castle. Through her mind's eye, she could make out many of the ruby throated bond-stones of the queen, glowing hot against the flushed throats of her ladies-in-waiting. Fewer still, and more faintly, she could perceive other women of the castle, servants and noblewomen alike, who wore no bond. But even they seemed powerless against the chimes.

The princess wondered from where the chimes came. Could this be the work of her wicked liege, or another marvel of her master? How had this new talent sprang upon her, the sight through walls and thoughts and air? What was the cause of all this? To these questions, her thoughts answered not. And still the chimes tolled on.

The entire castle was a flood of erotic rush assaulting her senses. Through her strange new sight, flickering images of women together, mouths upon straining hardened nipples. Here a woman slid finger after finger into her servant, here another pinched her own nipples cruelly. Here a woman on all fours, her hand reached behind herself, driving something into her faster and faster. Here a woman spanking another with a silver brush, her another writhing upon a bed. Here an older dowager, hiking up her skirts to get at herself, while her astonished husband looks on.

From all around come moans of pleasure, the slick sound of fingers and suckings. In her mind, she catches another woman swallowing a huge cock, gorging herself on his spurting seed. Here another riding hard upon a smaller cock, jolting herself down upon it, her breasts jostling up and down. Here an image of many fingers sliding into a woman from behind, here a thought of hot semen flying upon hardened nipples, into waiting mouths.

The images and thoughts and sounds inundated her, flooding over her in wave after wave. She held up her hands to her ears and closed her eyes, but still on they came. Rising and rising, the moans and wails and shrieks of pleasure built and built and built and built...

And then... nothing. 

All at once the chimes ceased, the moans and spasms dying away as the echoes faded. The images sank down within her, until at last she was free of them... save but one. Her mind's eye the image that remained was of the Queen slamming an enormous phallis into herself, crying out in frustration. In spite of her wonder at the tidal storm of lusts which had overrun her, the Princess smiled as she beheld the Queen seeking to fulfill her need, finding only vexation. At last this image too slowly faded, the Queen still writing upon her bed, driving the tool deeper and deeper into herself.

As the last thoughts died away, the princess felt dizzy and nearly swooned, quickly sitting upon her bed before she fell. What was the meaning of all that? She wondered. Did such an occurrence happen every day? How could this new talent, this second sight have come upon her? Her head swam and her nipples tingled and her belly growled. What was happening?

The princess sat upon her bed, still naked from her night's sleep, her sex become aroused as her mind replayed the images she'd beheld. Her hands unconsciously slid to her breasts, her fingertips flicking her nipples into hardened points.

Suddenly, her massive chamber door swung open, and in strode the robed Inquisitor. Beneath his arm he carried a small basket of fruits and cheeses and breads. What struck her most about him was his marked appearance, a crispness to his outline that made her eyes hum. The mane of thick hair which just last night has been shot through with greys and whites was now dark and silken.

Catching her gaze, he merely smiled. 

"I have brought some foods so you make break your fast." Said he, bowing slightly. "Doubtless you are famished."

"Yes, my lord." Said she, rising from the bed, a fur blanket wrapped loosely around her heavy breasts. "But first, please... where is my love? Where is my dear maid?"

To this his eyes turned grey and cold, and he looked away quickly.

"Ask not, my princess... For I can provide no gentle answer. Know you not in your heart what has happened?" he said, his voice very low. Sadly, the princess nodded, already knowing his answer.

"Is there no hope for her, my lord? Nothing we can do... no deep magick to bring her back?" Fat tears rolled down her cheeks, her yes imploring her master for solace.

"No, my dearest princess." Said he, his eyes matching her sadness behind his filigreed mask. "She is lost to us for a time... Perhaps she may return to us... but I cannot say how."

"For now, we must wrestle our wills from sadness. We must now bend them to our own purposes, though they despair." His back straightened as he spoke this last, and his eyes resumed their keen sparkle. "Come now, princess.. Put aside these thoughts. We have other matters to attend this day, both you and I."

Yes, my lord..." said the princess. "I will dress and begin immediately. And you, my lord? Are you to accompany me?"

"Alas, princess. I cannot. I have other matters to attend. The Queen has summoned me, and I will doubtless be bound to sate her, now that the tide has risen so."

"The tide, my lord?" she asked. "Ahhhhh, the chimes... the women... was that your doing, my lord?"

A very sly smile crossed his smooth lips. "But of course, my love." Spoke he. "Think you that your own tolling is the only music I have created here? Are all of my machines in the next rooms simply for mine and your pleasure alone." He chuckled.

"No my love, there is purpose in all that I do." He said, turning serious. "Think you not that our Queen would not have summoned you this very morning? Know you not how she wishes to gloat over her triumph, to watch your tears fall for our lost Chrysanthemum? Is not tonight the very night of the High Moon? Are there not Games this very afternoon, followed by the Rite of the Moon, and the Revel itself?"

"The time grows short princess. You have precious few moments before the Queen summons you to sit beside her, to offer your very body as prize to the Champions." The princess hurriedly dressed as her spoke. "My chimes have created for you only a hairs-breadth of time, that you may discover what you can to help us. All depends upon you, my love. You must hurry. My chimes will have surely stirred our Queen into a fury of lust, and she will have to find release very soon." 

"She must expel the pressure which my music and the wails of the castle's ladies have built up inside her. She must release and act normal. She too has a strategem for today, and if she succeeds, none of the outlanders will ever leave our gates. But in order to succeed, she must appear calm, as if all is well."

"She'll not be able to do that with all the desire this morning's chimes have produced in her. She will seek me out, and I shall sate her upon my machines. This will take some time, and you must use every moment of it. Once she is released, I have no doubt you shall be the first she calls to her. And when she does, you'll have precious little time."

He paced quietly as she finished dressing, wolfing down a bit of cheese and bread. At last, she grasped the iron key and stood before her master.

""Know you what to look for?" he asked. His eyes looked into her, and in them she could see his hope hung by the merest shred.

"Yes, my lord." Said she. The lie rolled off her tongue with too much a quickness, and his eyes turned away.

"Go then, my princess. Make haste and set you to your task. If you should find what we seek, bring it straightaway. I shall use all skill to forge a weapon... perhaps it will be enough."

With that, he turned and left the princess alone in her chambers. She listened as his bootfalls died away in the distance.

Taking a bite of an apple, a bit of white sand tickled upon her tongue.



The Inquisitor Ch. 27



The princess waited until all echoes of her master had died away, and she stood for moments more in silence, forcing calm and direction upon her mind. From her pillow she tore many wads of batting, stretching them into long strips and winding them 'round her wrist. When at last she was ready, key in hand, she strode across the room to the other door in her chamber. 

In all the time she had spent in these rooms, playing with Chrysanthemum, being administered her lessons, obeying her chimes... all of this time, this great door had remained solidly locked. The door held not handle, only a small, irregularly shaped keyhole. With a slightly trembling hand, she slid the key within it and turned.

For an eternal moment, nothing happened. Then a deep groan, and click of metal, and the lock sprung deep within the door. Pushing with all her might, she wrestled the heavy door open just enough for her small frame to squeak through. Beyond was the deepest blackness she had ever beheld.

Retreating from it, she hastened to the bathing chamber, and retrieved a lantern with a long candlewick, lighting it upon one of the smaller candles within her bedchamber. Taking a deep breath, she slid through the door, holding the lantern before her.

From outside her chambers, she found the massive door swung easily closed. In the dim light, she found a large handle and locking mechanism, which she tried once or twice, reassuring herself the great door would open upon her return.

Satisfied, she turned from the door and peered into the darkness. By the lantern light, she could make out an unlit torch mounted on an ornate sconce set into the wall. Using a bit of batting, she took a small flame from her lantern, it sputtered and finally caught, throwing a bit more light throughout the new chamber. She found herself on a stone landing connecting two wide staircases. One led upward; some faint light filtering down from above. The other led downward into utter darkness. Though her heart yearned to dash upwards out of the dark, her mind recalled the words of the old man who'd given her the key.

"Deep below the keep lies the ancient dragon-hold." Down his words said, down into the depths. Steeling herself, she raised her lantern and began to descend, lighting torch after torch as she made her way down.

- - -

The door to the Chamber of Delights burst open with such a force that it slammed hard against the stone walls; a deep boom echoing throughout the chamber. The Queen's voice thundered loud, calling out for the Inquisitor, raspy and harsh.

"I am here, my mistress." Said He, straightening up from behind one of the many contraptions throughout the chamber. In a flash she was on him. She grasped him by the throat, lifting him easily and pressing his back hard against a heavy beam supporting one of the nearby devices. 

Her eyes blazed and her breath was rapid and heavy. Her skin had taken on the strange other-worldly glow and it shone in the dim light of the chamber. All at once, she seemed to lessen, and her grip slackened as he dropped to his unsteady feet.

"Where have you been!?" she ranted, releasing him and pacing about the stone floor. "I sent for you... Do you not heed my summons when I call?" She turned to him, eyes wild and angry.

Calmly he replied. "Of course, my mistress. I am at your command, You know this!"

Turning from her, he tinkered with some of the gears of a nearby device. "I did not disobey your calls. I knew you would soon appear in these rooms momentarily, my Queen. I too heard the strange music and heard the wails and revelry in the castle. I came to prepare the machines, as I thought you might require them."

Turning back, he was momentarily surprised at how close the Queen had drawn to him in just an instant. Her fiery eyes met his, searching them for lies.

"Do not deign to tell half truths, my dear judge. I can sniff out your deception if I please. Do you stand here now before me, and proclaim the music before was not of your making!?"

"No, my mistress." Said He. "I heard the tolling; I saw the frenzy they caused. I myself was nearly dragged down by three of your minions just moments ago, so fierce was their lust."

"Truly this is some strange magick, my mistress. I believed it came from you, so incensed were the ladies of this castle. Such wanton desire. This music of lust we all witnessed was far greater than the clever chimes I made for your ward. I only wish I could command such power."

The Queen struck him with a blow that sent him reeling.

"How dare you speak of power! Mine is the only power in this castle, do you hear!? Your only thought should be to find new sources for my pleasure, and new lessons and tortures for my prisoners! Do you hear!?"

Her anger and frustration grew as she spoke, and she struck him again and again. Again, she seemed to catch herself, reigning in her fury. She seemed to abandon her suspicion of him, though her eyes watched him regaining his feet with slight distrust.

"Forgive me, my mistress." Said the Inquisitor, adjusting the mask about his face. Her blows had knocked it askew, but had not uncovered the face beneath. "I only meant to allay your fears. I did not wish you to think I had caused this strange music,"

"Ha." Chuckled She. "My fears, you say." She drew close to his face, close enough to feel her breath on his eyes. "I have no fears, my dear judge. Should I find you have defied me, t'is you who shall know fear."



The Inquisitor Ch. 28



The princess wound downwards around the curving stair, deep and deeper below the castle. The air grew dense and heavy and old as she descended. Down and down she climbed, until at last her feet stuck the flat stone floor of a tunnel leading off into the darkness. Though the floor was smooth stones laid in a geometric pattern, the walls and ceiling were rough and gouged, as if a great hand and nails had torn it from the living rock. The tunnel extended back past the staircase, but a massive rock-fall had sealed the passage in that direction. Her lantern guttered as a slight breath of air breathed out of the tunnel.

Holding her lantern before her, she carefully picked her way down the tunnel, sidestepping fallen stone and debris from the ceiling above. At last she came upon an ornate golden torch held by an equally adorned sconce. The torch and sconce had been beautifully carved to resemble a coiled dragon. Using another bit of cloth, she put flame to the torch, which at last crackled to life.

What she beheld took her breath away with a gasp. Before her was a massive arched doorway of sturdy oak and mahogany. Three times higher than a man it soared above her. The door was deeply carved with strange runes encircling an incredibly realistic dragon. It's scales gleamed in gold leaf; its sharp snarling teeth the smoothest ivory. It's eyes shone with fiery rubies, and its talons were forged steel, sharp and terrible.

In the torchlight, the princess found a small keyhole. Without much hope, she tried her little iron key, and was surprised to hear a resounding click through the mechanism. With her heart in her throat, she pulled back on it's massive handle with all her might. The old hinges budged but only a fraction. Again and again she strained at the giant door, until at last it loosed it's hold and swung wide on hidden counterweights. Beyond was only deep blackness.

Regaining her lantern, she crept slowly inside. The old man had mentioned nothing of a great adorned door, nor any dragon within. All the same, the princess could imagine stumbling headlong against scaly skin and razor sharp teeth. The feeble light from her lantern could not penetrate the darkness more than a few measures all around, but her footfalls echoed hollow, as if the chamber was terribly immense.

After a while of tiptoeing about, she came upon a large golden brazier, held high upon intricately carved golden claw feet. She noticed a small stone-lined trench running from it's base off into the gloom filled with some sort of dark liquid. Using her last bit of fabric, she caught a tongue of flame and lit the golden cauldron.

With a whoosh, flame leapt up within the brazier, and below, a stripe of fire raced down the trench below. It reached another brazier and caught it alight. The princess gasped as the fire raced along, lighting cauldron after cauldron until the entire chamber was bathed in firelight.

She stood agape as her eyes began to take in the mammoth hall. Spaced at intervals around the space were the flaming beacons, arranged in long rows down both sides of a very long hall. Between the rows of fire were shelf after massive shelf of leather bound books and tightly wrapped scrolls. There were long stone tables between the middle shelves, with cleverly decorated stone benches beside. At the far end of the great hall, a massive carving of a beautiful dragon dominated the high stone wall, mirroring the ornate design of the entrance.

Along the outer walls, beyond the fire trails lay an immeasurable treasure horde. Heaps of golden coins and doubloons, stacks of golden bars, all stamped with the same insignia of a dragon emblazoned so terribly on the entranceway. Among the great piles of gold stood large barrels and chests, spilling over with precious gems and stones, glowing with power. Racks of weapons stood amidst the gold, swords embued with powerful stones and runes, spears and jeweled pikes, heavy armored reflecting the dancing flames. Long strands of black pearls flowed out of a barrel near her. The lustrous spheres shone with eerie life in the firelight.

Her eyes grew wider and wider still, each direction bringing new wonders to her gaze. Turning slowly round, she tried to grapple with the immense horde of wealth before her. All at once she stood stock-still, as she turned to look behind. 

Just behind her lay the very dragon's teeth she'd imagined in the dark. Only now in the dancing light, they were all the more fearsome. Shrieking she jumped back from them, only to find they lay still. Slowly she composed herself as she discovered that she now looked upon the long-dead skull of a tremendous dragon, it's gargantuan skeleton stretching behind it. Only a few steps more in the dark would have found her against the great teeth.

As a child, she had heard the tales of fearsome dragons laying waste to the realms, gathering their treasures and burning towns. All the while she had disbelieved them, but now, here lay the awful truth before her. She shuddered as she imagined it in life, its jeweled scales flashing in the sun, it's thick muscles and claws, it's horrible roar seemed to sound in her mind. Long ago this terrible worm had been vanquished, but even as bones, it cast a frightful image.

She backed slowly away from its hideous toothy maw, as if it might spring to life and gobble her whole. Indeed it was the span of many moments before she fully trusted its lifelessness enough to turn once again to face the great hall.

Extinguishing her lantern, she made her way down a few low steps and walked slow amongst the many shelves. They held volume after volume, scroll after scroll, and she despaired of finding anything of use in time.

- - - 

The Queens eyes glittered as she wandered amongst the Inquistor's machines. He busied himself stoking a low fire in a large furnace, employing large bellows to breathe life into the beast. Soon fire roared within the furnace, and gears and clockwork rumbled into motion.

The Queen stood resplendent amid the chamber's inventions. Her golden hair tumbled long down her back, and her powerful beauty belied the darkness within her.

"Please, my lady," said He, at last finished with his preparations. "Allow me to make you more comfortable."

He drew close to her, and loosed the golden threads of her bodice. Her large full breasts nearly sprang from their confining garments, her nipples standing out hard and dark. She allowed him to disrobe her, all the while her bright eyes fixed on him, She relished in the feel of his hands upon her skin as he slid of her bodice and gowns.

She stood before him naked, but without a hint of modesty or shyness. The light shone upon her smooth skin, the perfectly round globes of her luscious breasts, the curve of her stomach, her long silky legs. Her entire being exuded power, and the sight of her supple body washed over him. Her eyes devoured him as she stood amongst the machines, and her hands slid down to find him hard beneath his robes. A coy smile curled her lips, and she leaned in close to his ear, whispering lusty tidbits to him.

"So, my love..." she purred. "What new delights have you fashioned to release me. What new pleasures has your mind conceived to torment me?"

"Ah." Said He. "All in good time, my liege. I have devised a new apparatus for you. And since you are so decidedly vexed, perhaps today is the perfect time to test it out."

Again came the soft purring from the Queen. "Mmm... very good. Tell me, is it large? Will it fill me up?

"Oh, most decidedly, my Queen. I have crafted it just for you."

"Ah, then you have not introduced our guest to it, then? I know of the lust which hides in your ward, my judge. Surely she needs instruction by your big device." The Queen tugged at his erect cock as she prodded him with sly questions.

"No, my Queen. I have instructed her with many devices, but this one is for you. I doubt she could... accommodate it."

"No?" she purred. "Not yet, at least. If it satisfies me as you say, perhaps I shall give her a lesson with it. Punish her willful little body. Yes. She's such a dirty little slattern, is she not? She'll need new instruction, now that her weak little handmaiden has gone. Would you like that, my dear judge... would you like to see me administer a lesson to her?

A moment of darkness crossed his eyes as she mentioned the maid, but he hid it quickly. Not quick enough that the Queen did not spot it, and smile an evil smile. She kept hold of his hard cock, giving a series of sharp squeezes.

"Yes, my tormentor..." said She. "I know you loved her. I know how she slurped so soundly upon your member, drank your seed so hungrily." Suddenly, her grip tightened around his shaft. "But she belonged to me! Do not doubt that I can do as I wish with my own things!"

"She was mine!" she continued. "And I grew tired of her. Just as you are also mine. Do not mistake my desire as weakness, my tormentor. Should I desire, do you not think I can break your bond, and take your slave for myself?" All the while, her strong hand gripped his cock tightly.

"Yes, my lady." Said He, though he did not wince nor cower, but stood tall, returning her fixed gaze. "But you promised the young one to me, my Queen, that I may do with her as I wish.

The Queen released him, and moved away, flitting her wrist as if the entire matter were trivial. "Yes, yes, very well." said She. "Do with her as you will. But remember, you are both mine, and she will obey me when I command."

"But haste," she said at last. "I have many more things yet to do. Let us get to the matter at hand. I am in need of relief, and you had best provide it, or it will go hard with you... and her."

"As you wish, my Queen." Said He. Taking her by the hand, he slowly led her beautiful naked form to a long table, padded with a long thick pillow, upholstered in soft purple tufted cloth.

He bade her lie on her back, and she complied. He slid a thick pillow under her buttocks, elevating her hips off the table, arching her back, knees bent, feet flat on the thick padding. He spread her legs apart, wide, wider, until her sex stood out warm and moist, He fastened restraints round her ankles, binding them to thick leather straps attached the either corner of the table. She smiled as he held her down.

"Yes, my tormentor." She cooed. "You know how I like to be restrained,"

"Yes, my Queen." said H, rounding the table. As he passed by her breasts, he seized one of her hard nipples and squeezed it hard. The Queen wriggled on the pillow with delight.

"MMM!" said She. "Yes, you filthy mongrel! Rough! You give it to me hard, you masked villain!"

He pinched again, harder, pulling her nipple and breast high up and letting it plop back. She smiled as she insulted him, allowing him to forcefully pull her arms above her head, and bind them to straps as well.

As he rounded the table, he viciously pinched her other nipple, to which she squealed with lust. There she lay, legs splayed wide, feet flat on the padding, her buttocks high in the air. Her large round breasts heaved up and down as he tortured her nipples with tugs and pinches and sucklings. As his lips came away from her dark nipple, hot milk still streamed from it into his mouth.

"Yes, dog!" She cried. "Lap at my milk, suck it, drink from me!" Her sex grew hot and slick and aroused as his mouth hard pulled at her heavy breast. He suckled her hard, drinking in her milk as she writhed under his mouth. At last he released her breast, slapping it lightly on the nipple, stinging it.

"I believe you are ready for my device now, my lady." He hissed.

"Yes, you bastard!" She cried, "Give it to me! Ram it in me! Fill me up with it!"

Smiling, he left her naked body wriggling on his table as he went to retrieve his new invention. 



The Inquisitor Ch. 29



Far below, the princess searched shelf after shelf, reading legends on spines of volumes, carefully unrolling scrolls. Histories and legends, faery tales and myths lay before her. To all these she gave passing glances, but had not the time to delve deep into their secrets.

She made her way down the long hall, her fingers stopping now and again, pulling some forgotten volume, only to return it, not finding anything of use. She knew not how long she had been searching in the library of the ancient dragon horde, but knew the moments ticked by at breakneck speed.

Her frustration grew as she searched. Somewhere among these writings, the old man at the outlanders camp had promised she would find something which might help her thwart her ruler, information to help her fulfill her oath of vengeance. With a growl, she returned another useless volume to its place.

About halfway down the hall, near the center table, she began to come across items showing a bit more promise. The books and tomes here seemed newer, fresher. The scrolls held schematics and technical drawings which seemed to her somewhat familiar. Her fingertips alighted upon a thick leather-bound volume bearing the legend "The Writings of The King." Sliding it out, she hefted it onto the stone table and sat upon its adjoining bench, tucking her leg up under her as she began to read. She thumbed through page after page until at last her eye fell upon something which caught her attention.

- - -

The sand... The sand was the key!

Many hours I listened to my companion across the way. Scrape, scrape, scrape! Stone rasping against harder stone. I questioned him many times... what are you doing? What is the meaning of this? What scratching is that? How are we to escape this infernal prison?

To all my queries, he said nothing. And still the scraping, scratching. In the weak light, I could see his back to me, his bent frame toiling at the wall behind him. At times, he would collapse in exhaustion and all I could hear from his was the rattle of his harsh breathing. After a time, he would rise again, resuming the awful scraping of the wall behind him.

At long last, he sat down with a heavy sigh, and drew before him a small mound of shiny black sand. For all the many hours of the tedious scraping at the wall, all he had gathered was this small mound of grains.

For many long minutes, he sat still and silent. So much so, I believed him to have expired from his toil, so quiet was he.

Then, his raspy voice issued across the chasm between us.

"So, my companion..." he panted. "You wish to know of our escape."

"Yes, friend." Said I. "What has this bit of dust have to do with climbing from this pit?" 

In truth, I believed him mad, or at the very least addled beyond reason.

"Patience, my comrade." He cackled. "Think you that this will be easy? Men have lived lifetimes trying to master this one task alone!"

All at once, a bright blue ball of fire sprung up above his outstretched hand. It curled around itself, writhing and reforming. It hung in the air above his hand, hovered their of its own accord.

My thoughts of his madness vanished, though I still had doubts about my own sanity. Truly I had slipped from reason myself, beholding such a sight, or this prisoner across the divide was a great sorcerer indeed.

Carefully, he laid the ball of blue fire into a small depression in the rock floor next to him, where it rolled and played and crackled. Though its brightness had dissipated, it still shone bright enough to illuminate the walls of our shared prison and cast an eerie glow against his wis'ned skin.

Let me take a moment to describe him. His hair was long and grey, matted and wild. He wore a long beard, equally crazed and dirty, which hung long down to his stomach and across his crossed legs. He was tall, as so much as I could tell from his seated posture, and his shoulders had once been broad and strong, but age and severity had hunched them considerably. His most striking features, however, were his eyes. They stood out bright from sunken sockets, His face was drawn and haggard, as a man who has not seen decent food in many an age. But the eyes. Bright and shining, even so much as glowing in the darkness. I must confess that even I gave a shudder to behold them.

But let me continue with the narrative. So long spent I in the darkness of our oubliette, it is difficult to place events in their proper order. How long we spent together there I cannot say, but an age it seemed to learn the skills he professed. I have always been a quick study, language, mathematics, the arts; all of these I mastered with ease, but his teaching taxed me in a way I have never known before, of mind and of body.

Even now as I pen these histories, his voice strikes hard within me.

"Your mind," he would say. "Your hands are useless here. You must believe him into existence... with your mind!" And off he would go in another endless parade of cackles and coughs and suptters before we could continue.

From his small mound of sand, he fashioned a tiny man-shape. He spat into the sand, urinated into it, formed it into paste. Slowly, ever so slowly, he fashioned his clay man-shape. Hours we spent in the light of his strange blue fire as he worked it into being. All the while as he fashioned, he spoke to me of strange new sciences. He told me of the heavens, of strange worlds beyond our own. He spoke of the stars, proclaiming them like our own sun, but far distant in the vastness of the heavens. He told of plants with healing properties, of stones which held great power. 

Magick, dear reader. He spoke of magick unknown to me, though I could best any wizard in my own realm. He told of music, explained about tricks of sight and of sound and of mind. And all the while he moulded his man-shape.

I drifted in and out. At times he would quickly extinguish his magick flame. And soon after, men would appear high above, and rain insults and refuse down upon us. From these scraps we would survive. As he worked, I fashioned a vessel for water from a broken pot-sherd. I would gather it drop by drop as it seeped from the living rock about me.

At long last, the darkness was allayed with a new ball of fire, bright and bluish green, which he laid beside him again. His eerie eyes fixed me from across the chasm.

"It is finished." said he, holding up a tiny clay figure before him for me to see. To my amazement, it was a perfect replica of himself, exact to the last detail. 

"A doll!" raged I. "All this long time for a mere doll!"

From out of the darkness, a sharp stone struck me directly between the eyes.

"Silence, dolt!" he wheezed as a small trickle of my blood ran down from the strike. ""T'is no mere doll! T'is the Golem of Cyr-va'ahl!"

I mocked him not, no fool was I, nor did I relish another rock to the head. But, my gentle reader, in my thoughts, I smirked.

But only for a moment. In the gloom, he hunched over his tiny doppleganger and spoke muttered words to it. Again, I thought him quite mad, until all at once, the tiny clay figure twitched. It twitched and with a hop it sprang up and moved of its own accord!

The old man giggled and clapped with gnarled hands with glee. "Ha Ha!" he cried. 'You see?!" And he sprang to his own feet and danced a shambling jig. As I watched in shock, the tiny figure of himself danced the same disconcerting dance beneath him.

Again, I believed I might have come unhinged. Here I sat, gazing across a bottomless pit at a crazed old man and his dancing clay doll. I shook my head and blinked my eyes, but still it remained.

All at once, he sat down again, breathing hard as his little man-doll danced and whirled and jumped. The effort seemed to have drained him, and as I watched, the little figure reeled and fell over, shattering into a thousand pieces.

The old man sighed... his shoulders sank and he was very quiet for a very long time.

I do not know how long we sat in silence... it seemed to me as days. I was brimming over with questions, but I would open my mouth to ask, only to look over and see his exhausted condition. I therefore remained silent, allowing him to regain his strength.

- - -

The princess looked up from her reading. A small grey mouse scuttled across a few golden coins to her left, making a tinkling sound.

The princess wished for a timepiece, or a sands-of-hour, for she had no idea how long she'd been gone. She plunged again into the narrative, reading as fast as she could, immersed in the King's writings.

- - -

At long last, he seemed ready, and bade me find a stone or implement of any kind, and set to work gathering sand from the rocks on my side of the oubliette. I cannot say how long I labored at the rock. Hard as iron it was, and I felt my own strength gradually fade as I labored. Days of toil it seemed before I had even garnered but a small pile of black sand.

"That is sufficient." He called from across the way. "Now your training begins."

"You asked how we were to escape from this forsaken place. The answer lies before you. In truth, it lies above you, but we shall come to that later. For now, you must master yourself."

"Before you lies a pile of the same grains as I fashioned my Golem. My task was easy, for I already have the knowledge, and I could make use of my hands. For us to escape this prison, you shall have neither, and your task will be very difficult."

He bade me separate out from the pile but two grains of the black sand, and set them far apart. This task alone proved difficult, as I was forever losing one grain, or snaring more than one from the pile. At last, I was reduced to one grain at a time, and placing them very carefully, so I might find them again. It was then that he asked what seemed an impossibility.

He said I was to try and bind the two grains together, using only my thoughts. I laughed out at this, to which I received another rock to the head. I thought and thought, and the grains remained apart.

Mastering this skill took what seemed an eternity. Try as I might, I could no more make the sand move than I could fly from the pit of my own volition. I gazed at them, I frowned at them, I scowled at them, I thought with all my might, but all to no avail.

I labored to control the sand with my thoughts, and despaired. I know it must have taken a very long while to grasp the skill, for my own beard had grown quite long when I finally accomplished it.

T's not through some forgotten magick words that I achieved this, though he taught me a-plenty, and I tried them all. One morning, or what seemed like morning, I was just lying there, looking back and forth from my two shiny grains of sand; when it happened. In my heart, or my head, or somewhere, I believed they could. I believed it! And just like that, the two grains shot towards each other, striking together with such force that they appeared to fuse together.

From across the way, the old man cackled and danced with glee. "You see!" he shouted. "You see! You must believe it into existence!"

I had it! From there, he instructed me to mould my little pile of sand into any shape I wished. A ball, a cube, a tree, a mouse, all manner of solid shapes I could create by thinking it into being. But for all my shape-shifting, my figures never once moved of their own accord, or showed any sign of life.

"At long last!" the old man who shared my prison cried. "Now, my pupil. You must learn the magick that can breath life and movement into these forms!" And he cackled and danced and coughed and wheezed.

Again it seemed another age as he instructed me on various ancient words of magick. The belief and thoughts of mind my lent them strength, but the words themselves held their own power. As I progressed, he taught me to lend movement to a small mouse-shape, to make it climb about my small ledge and up the walls. He taught me to bounce a ball of sand higher and higher. Oh, how many times did I fail at that task. My thoughts would bounce it again and again, and all at once, the ball would come apart with the slightest nugge.

He would scold me for losing focus, proclaim me a dimwit, shower me with a hail of stones, but on he instructed me. At last, I mastered all of these small figures, could hold them together for as long as I wish, could mould them into whatever shape I chose with just a thought. I gloated over my progress, and would receive a shower of stones for my boastfulness. 

"No more." He proclaimed one day, or it seemed like day, but I had no way of actually knowing, as no sun shone in our dank oubliette. "You must rest for three days. Take any food that is thrown down to you, drink any water you can find, and do naught but rest and gather strength." I obeyed and he was silent, indeed for three days. Thought I rested and ate and drank what I could, I must confess I counted the minutes.

After what seemed another age, he spoke again. "It is time, my son. I can sense no living soul anywhere near but you and I."

"Do you recall your lessons, my pupil?" he asked. "You must bring all your skills to bear now."

"Look upon our prison. See that it is made up of this hard black stone?"

"Yes, my master." Said I.

"Long ago, the ledges you and I inhabit were once part of a natural bridge of sorts over this chasm. There was similar on high above us at the rim of this rift." He pointed aloft and I strained to make out the dim pinnacle of the wall behind me.

"The infidels whom you fought against..." he continued. "Many seasons ago learned this rock held certain powers. When combined with other rocks and minerals, it serves as enhancer. As you already have learned from your toils at the rock, it is very hard and dense. The infidels tried without success to mine this rock, only to learn all their skills were useless against its stubbornness."

"The Magi of the Sultan discovered that when this rock is powdered, and mixed with the elements of Greek fire, it make it's all them more potent and destructive. You might remember the effect it had on your armies, do you not?"

It is with a said heart I recalled the destruction of my fine armies at the hands of my enemies and the exploding missiles of green fire their war-engines hurled upon us.

"The Sultan knew of the properties of this stone..." he continued, and he desired a store of it for his weapons. But as I said, their mining tools were impotent against this stone." He smacked the stone wall behind him soundly with his palm.

"It was decided they would take the bridges over the chasm, and for many, many seasons, hundreds of slaves worked to break narrow beams from the walls, and lift them to the rim. Many men died before they brought them up. You and I stand on either end of one of those old natural beams."

"They brought them up..." he went on. "They dragged them up and more slaves spent generations pulverizing it into powder. High above you lies a huge mound of powdered black sand. The Sultan used but a bit of it with his Greek fire and pitch, and it served his purposes with great return."

"Now do you see why I had you learn to create with your mind? Any dullard can fashion a replica with his hands, but it takes true mastery to do it by will alone." Even in the darkness, I could see him brimming with pride.

"But master, why have you not create your own Go'Lem to release you?" I asked.

"Alas." He replied. "I have not the strength any longer. You saw how badly it taxed me just to breathe life into my tiny form. You are the only one strong enough to conjure a Golem powerful enough to bring you to the surface."

"But beware, boy!" he warned. "Take care with this new power. You should never use this type of rock to conjure such a being. Rock such as this, it is difficult to control. It often overpowers the good, and turns to evil. Take care not to let a dark Golem linger too long... use pure grains if you can. In our case, it is all we have, and therefore, we must use it. But beware... it may... take on a mind of it's own."

He sat down and extinguished his fire, leaving me alone in the dark. I concentrated hard, feeling up the wall with my mind. At last, I perceived the great mound of black shiny grains.

It took far more of my will than I expected. It was as if it fought against me. At last, I prevailed, and it began to form together. First and hand, and arm, shoulder, neck, face... my face. After a time, I formed a copy of myself high above me, moulded of sand. I found that if I believed it, I could change its shape, it's color, its texture. I tried different clothes on it, different hairstyles, different boots, all made up of solid grains of sand. In my mind, I stood, just as real and solid as if it were myself, looking down the chasm at myself standing on the ledge far below.

I discovered a strange connection with the being above. A link, between my mind of flesh and tissue, and it's of sand and mineral. I found I could control it. The sand! The sand was the key! 

I encouraged it to hunt for a means of extricating me from the pit. I found it did as commanded, but not without hesitation. It was as if it desired to leave me in my prison, and make its own escape. After much internal struggle, it found the very long rope which had been used to lower me down. It stood on the lip of the chasm, coiling it, looking down at me.

I commanded it! I commanded it to lower the rope, and at long last it obeyed. The long coil snaked down, and I tethered my self to it. Slowly, very so slowly, it pulled me up. Once, about halfway, I perceived it desired to drop me, and I unleashed a barrage of commands with my mind, and at last it reeled me the rest of the way.

I struggled over the lip, and rose to find myself staring... at myself. The eyes, the mouth, the face... mine. Even the curious smile it gave me as we gazed at one another. It was then that its curious smile changed. It slid into an ugly sneer, and in its eyes I saw hate.

It lunged at me, grasped at my throat, trying to throttle me. We struggled, and I was aghast at its strength, it's solidity. We fought, exchanging blow for blow, man against himself, until at last, I wrestled him over the edge and watched him fall...



The Inquisitor Ch. 30



High above the princess as she tore through the books held within the dragon-hold, the Queen smiled as she lay upon the tufted cloth and awaited The Inquisitor. In her mind, she followed the sequence of events that must take place this day. Tonight was the High Moon, and if she met with success in her plans, not a soul in this realm, or any other, could ever unseat her.

But first, she must find release. Where was that damned fool? she thought. She needed to relieve her pent-up desire in order to focus on her plans. At present, her mind was overwhelmed with desire, enflamed by the strange music which had so affected the ladies of the castle.

At last she heard the scratch of his boots on the stone floor, and she smiled to herself. He drew close to the table, a sinister smiled under his white and gold mask. 

"Behold, my Queen." said He. He began to unwrap a large bundle, wrapped in sumptuous indigo silk. From the bundle he drew a very large device and then a smaller one, and held them up for her to see. Her eyes, and her cunning smile, grew wide as she stared at the larger implement.

The device was fashioned from translucent blown glass. It was long and cylindrical, and throughout the glass were swirled softly colored red strands and trails. The tool began with a large oblong sphere, about the size of a small egg. From there, it swirled out in a graduating spiral, with little round beads of glass fused onto its outer ridges at intervals. Its length was a little shorter than a man's forearm, and it's larger end was nearly as big around. To it's base was fused some sort of bracket, which she assumed must fit into some sort of machine.

"Oh my." cooed the Queen, clearly impressed. She found it amusing that she could still be surprised by his inventions. She beheld the tool for a few moments, drinking in it's possibilities.

"And this as well." said He, showing her the next implement. Though not nearly as large as the first, this one was also quite formidable. Made from the same clear and red-ribboned glass, this one mirrored the large egg shape of its twin, but did not spiral larger beneath it. Instead, it smoothed down into a short rod shape, ending in a large flat disk. The Queen noted with relish a small insectine device embedded within the smaller device. Noting her gaze, The Inquisitor flicked the side of the tool, and the little machine inside began to beat it's wings, and the device hummed with it's own life.

"Lie back, my Queen." He directed, and she laid her head back. He came around the table in between her legs, and began to play there with his fingers, He made soft little circles around her engorged lips with the soft pads of his fingertips. Round and round they went, one hand playing upon her slick button, the other gently exploring her wet sex. Firmer and firmer, until all at once, his finger slipped inside, quickly followed by another. While he slid the two into her and then out and then in once again, his other hand and fingers stimulated her clitoris.

The fingers began to make wet noises as they slid in, another, and then another, the four inside stretching her delightfully. She was already greatly aroused, and began to moan deeply, pushing her hips down on his thrusting fingers. Her wetness slid around his many fingers, and down between her cheeks below.

"Yes, my tormentor!" she moaned. "Put them into me, make me sopping!"

The fingers playing upon her slick button gave way to his probing tongue and mouth. He latched onto her and licked and sucked while his fingers slid in again and again. Her hips ground against his masked face, the golden filigree rough against her smooth skin. She bucked against his mouth, and her moans increased as his long and pointed tongue slipped in and out along with his fingers.

He looked up from between her legs, his dark eyes beneath the mask meeting her, looking down at him from between her large heaving breasts. Smiling, he asked, "Does that please you, my Queen?"

"Oh yes!" she moaned. "Prepare me with those fingers... aaah yess, and the thumb as well!" As she squirmed his thumbed joined the rest of his fingers, slipping about inside of her, drawing all of them together like a point, before flexing them out, wider, wider, until her walls drew them completely in. She cried out as she stretched round his slick hand, her hips bucking faster and harder as his mouth returned to lash her once again.

As he suckled at her clitoris, he would bring his hand nearly out, stretching her wide, before sliding them back in slow. Into her, slowly withdrawing, and slowly deeper in went his fingers and palms. Her sex was soaking with her own wetness, added to by his mouth upon her.

Slowly, he withdrew his thrusting fingers, but kept exploring her with his long tongue. The Queen squirmed against his mouth, and he made her second opening slick with her own juices. Slowly, his fingertip explored her, finding her receptive as he inserted his finger slow and steady.

"Ooooo..." she moaned deeply. "Oh yesss, you dirty slave! Slide it in me!" He smiled as he forced another finger into her from behind, making it wet inside as well.

As she moaned and squirmed, he raised up from her, withdrawing his fingers. The Queen made a coy pout, but only for a moment, as he began to introduce the humming device to her. "Oh!" she moaned. "Oooh, slow, my tormentor, slow... I am not ready back there."

"That is too bad, my Queen, for you will take all of it!" he replied. Slowly, he gave her the humming, throbbing tool. It's shape slid further inside her, stretching her as it continued into her. Wider, wider still, the smooth egg shape stretched her around it's rounded sides. She quivered as it reached it's widest, her rear slowly becoming accustomed to it. She moaned hard as it began to slim and diminish, until he at last pushed it deep into her behind, until it's disk held firm against her quivering cheeks.

He stood once again as the Queen lay on the tufted cloth. What a sight she made, her back arched, her hips high, her feet flat upon the padding, her arms pulled high above her head by the restraints, her poor rear stretched by his humming glass device. Though she moaned and writhed upon the soft padding, her fierce eyes stayed fixed upon him, and the intense look of pleasure danced upon her face.

"Ooo... You like seeing me like this, don't you, slave." She hissed. "Your master, tied and twisted with your fat rod up my ass?" Though she possessed the strength to tear her restraints from their mounts, she relished in her false captivity.

"It is my duty to serve you, my Queen." said He. "And that is what I intend to do." he added with a sinister smile.

He left her to lie upon his tufted table, terribly aroused from the huge device's insertion. Her nipples stood out hard and pointed, and her thighs quivered with delight. In a moment, she heard a series of clanks and scrapes as he began attaching a new device to the foot of the table.

Though much of the new invention was obscured from her view, the Queen saw a long device now stood ready between her wide-spread legs. From her vantage on her back, she could see a long wooden rod, with a spiral groove running along its length, disappearing into a series of gears and clockwork. The Inquisitor stood to the left side of her table, and she could make out the handle of a large cranking mechanism near him. Somewhere underneath the table, she knew that crank would connect into the machine poised before her moist and exposed sex.

To a peculiar fitting on the end of the long wooden rod, he fitted the huge spiraling glass device he'd made. It locked into place, and the Queen realized with anticipation it's large bulbous end lay ready to slide into her, close enough to nearly touch her wet opening.

From beside her, he began to speak.

"As you know, my Queen, I have tortured countless scores of your prisoners. I have found that when a certain procedure is explained to them they find it all the more terrifying, and often confess even before I have administered it."

"So it is with this device, Shall I tell you what it will do to you?" He noted with delight how she squirmed on the table before the huge glass implement. "Yes, I think I shall."

"You see, my Queen. This glass tool waits but for a single turn of this handle." For effect, he turned the crank a bit, and the thick rounded end of the device extended to touch her slick opening. To the Queen's surprise, its glass tip was extremely warm. "Ah, I see you've discovered one of this device's secrets. I've had it in the fire most of the day, and the glass holds the heat very well, doesn't it?"

The Queen only managed a weak affirmation as she wiggled herself against the warm glass.

"As you might have guessed, my lady... when I turn this handle, it drives this long shaft here, which in turn drives the device between your legs. The more I turn, the deeper it will go. Were you not my Queen and master, I could tear you in half with it if I chose to... But I think you shall be able to accommodate it, don't you?"

As he spoke her began to slowly turn the crank. The large bulb began to slowly rotate and work it's way into the Queen. She moaned deeply as it stretched her around its girth. Slowly, ever so slowly, it wound its way inside her, it's huge rounded tip stretching her, stretching her until it was within her. Her hips and legs quivered as it's rounded end found purchase, and the spiraling arms began to work their way in as well. 

She found to her immense delight that the little beads of fused glass hit exactly upon her secret spot with each turn of the handle. Each time one of the heated nubs found their mark, a new jolt of pleasure shot through her. As he turned the crank, the spiral arms began to widen, further, further, 

"Oh yes!" she cried! "OOO, it's getting so big in me." 

"Ah, my Queen..." said He. "T'is only just a few turns. It will get much wider still." To this he turned the crank again, and another widening arm slipped inside, its nubs lashing at her clit and secret spot.

The warmth of the huge device, it's tiny nubs, its stretching of her began to build her excitiement. With each revolution, it stretched and filled her even more. Now the device began to encounter the smaller device inserted into her other opening. Their sizes met inside her, separated by her two openings. With each turn, they created new waves of exctasy as they interacted through the thin membrane separating them. By now, much of the device had rotated deep inside her, filling her with warmth and stimulation. 

Reversing directions, her backed the device out some, before returning it again. The huge tool wound into her, deeper, deeper, wider and wider. Outside, an otherwise cloudless sky began to darken with dark heavy clouds above the castle. Lighting flashed hot from within them, at first sporadic, quickly becoming relentless.

In the dungeons below, the Inquisitor stretched her again and again, until the Queen was writhing upon his table, the entire girth of the device well inside of her, while it's counterpart stretched her from behind. The massive device inside her, expanding her opening even more than the princess's two hands sliding within her before. Her cries had become an unceasing cacophony of deep moans and squeals. Her arm tore her restraint free from it's mount, seizing his hardened member. She pulled it from its robes, stroking it hard and long, her thumb rubbing firmly against his opening.

He turned the crank yet again, ramming the device home deep inside her, seizing her erect nipple and squeezing it hard, Even the Queen, with her voracious appetites, could withstand the rising tide no longer, and her muscles tightened around the devices in paralyzing wave after wave. Outside, the crash of thunder was one long rolling war of sound and pressure above the castle, hot flashes of lightning striking all about. A man unlucky enough to be caught out in the field burned instantly as one of the bolts sought him out. Hot and salty seed shot forth from the Inquisitor's flogged cock onto her round breasts.

In the dungeons below, the Queen came again and again. Her body convulsed on the devices, her inner walls tight as a fist around its huge spiraling mass. The tool within her backside hummed with all it's might, and she came over and over again, stretched to her limit by his ingenious device.

Slowly, ever so slowly, the waves subsided as he began to withdraw the device. Each time the nubs hit upon her secret, another jolt shot through her as she bucked upon his table. At last, it withdrew from her, leaving the device in her rear humming madly. At last he dislodged the machine from the table and moved it away. Stepping round the table, he slowly pulled out the smaller device from her behind. A new orgasm racked her again as the bulbous end of the tool stretched its way out of her. Outside, the dark clouds began to break up and float away on a freshening breeze.

The Inquisitor smiled down at the Queen, who lay panting on his table. Her blond hair was wet with perspiration and her kin shone with tiny beads. Her eyes were closed and the deepest smile of contentment creased her face. 

At last she managed a weak reply as her finger lazily trailed in his ejaculate spread across her milky breasts. "Very good, my tormentor. You have indeed served me well." she said as she popped the last bit of his seed into her mouth.

He busied himself putting away the devices and machines while the Queen unsteadily undid her restraints, rose and dressed. As he wrapped the large spiral device, he noticed it had cracked from tip to base from her strongly tightening inner muscles.



The Inquisitor Ch. 31



As the Queen received her pleasure, far below them the princess frantically continued to search the library within the dragon-hold. She abandoned the book of the King's writings, and searched among the scrolls. She opened volume after volume, unrolled scroll after scroll. Though she found plenty of myths and legends and stories of heroes past, she found nothing that might aid her in her plight. None offered any solution or clue as to how to bring about the defeat of an enemy as powerful as the Queen.

Defeated, she plopped down on the low bench at the center table. She hung her head. A feeling of time slipping away faster and faster welled up inside of her. At last, her eye fell upon the writings of the King once again. Though she could not explain it, her mind told her the answer still lay within. It was if a voice sounded inside of her head, urging her to delve deeper into the book.

She opened the volume and read on. She skimmed the elaborate details of his harrowing escape from the darkened prison of the Saracen, of his rescue of the old man, Syr Va'ahl, his companion from across the chasm. She touched briefly the tale of their desperate journey across the burning desert, of their joyful reunion with his kinsmen of the North.

Frustrated, she flipped to the last few stories in the volume. She felt the fleeting of time and hurried on. She noticed the lettering in this portion of the book was different from that before. Though written in the same hand, the ink was shaky and spattered, as if the penman had written it hurriedly.

As the Queen took the device of the Inquisitor in his Chamber of Delights high above, the princess bent her head to one last tale.

- - -

Hearken now as I pen these last words. I fear I have not much time left; the curse has already taken hold. I shall try to bleed out this last tale in hope it may come to aid another in some far distant future. As for my own... I am soon finished.

As my sight fails, I tell you this mournful tale of woe. The song of sorrow that is The Dragon and the Maidens.

T'was many seasons ago, when I crossed the great sea to the north to journey once again to my homeland. Leaving behind most of my kinsmen, we traveled by longboat, shields hung proud along its thick wooden hulls and carvéd rail. Many of my cousins have traveled with me, and at my side, the wise and learned Syr Va'ahl.

Even in the fading light, I can still hear the splash of the long oars in my ear, the beat from the tasker, measuring out strokes on the low drum. I feel the salt wind on my face, and it makes me smile even now. The rasp of my quill calls to my mind the creak of line and the snap of stiff sail.

We sailed south and to the east, back across the icy sea. The Gods of the Sea tried with might of wave and wind to drag us down into the watery depths, but our fleet sailed on, losing but two vessels. O! The cries of those left in our wakes haunts me still.

Land spotted, dark on the horizon, low rolling green hills and stark white marble cliffs rising straight out of the sea. Once again the scent of my homeland filled my lungs, and we sang out mighty songs of war and glory.

At once our fleet descended on the outposts and garrisons so brazenly placed by the Saracen invaders on the shores of my homeland. No more would they stand upon my soil!

We landed below their sight, and a great many bowmen went ashore to attack from land. On sailed we, and rained fire and destruction on them from the sea. From without their walls, arrows rained from our longbows.

Their siege engines hurled flaming balls of pitch toward us, even striking one of our vessels. Oh the screams of the men caught alight on that unfortunate craft. But we returned their flaming missiles with our own, and wrought destruction upon all.

These Saracen outlanders had no knowledge of our secret flames, their contact with their empire severed by distance and sea. But I knew the secret of the terrible flame. What in later years became known as Greek Fire was known to us as well. We tipped our arrows and bolts in the mineral fire of the black rock we spirited away from the Saracen who had imprisoned me.

All day and all night we torn them to shreds, our arrows flaming arcs of death in the night. How I recall the shadows of the men in the garrisons, running this way and that, trying to douse the flames with water, only to find the water made the flames spread even more! I smiled at their destruction; I ate it with jam and toast.

For a season, we laid waste to them, until we drove them into the sea. Our swords were bright with their blood, and they were utterly driven from my realm. I wept at the scourge they left upon my lands, and we went from village to village undoing their wickedness.

"T'was in such a village that I found them. T'was in the burned out hulk of a thatched longhouse I found them, huddled against each other in a tiny cage.

I cannot speak the depth of my love for them... both of them. I was struck by a thunderbolt at their first sight. Even through the grime and muck that marred them, I beheld their beauty, and was thence slain.

Their eyes had the haunted look of prey, and they cringed at my approach, though I only meant to free them, to protect them with my very life. Though I was much older than them, I beheld them and my heart was torn in two. I cursed the heavens and all who marched 'neath the sign of the crescent for the sins they had wrought on these two girls. I vowed on all that was once sacred to love and protect them both until the end of my days.

What wonders clean water, fresh clothes and hot food can do. By eventide, the two wretches I had discovered cowering in their cage had blossomed into two stunning girls of the deepest beauty.

Their hair was long and golden, and shone with new light after ridding them of dirt and filth. The cheeks were rosy and bright, after being scrubbed red by the dowagers who accompanied us. These old ladies fell upon them with love and affection, clucking their tongues and lamenting o'er the abuse their new charges must have suffered, and cooing over them as if they were but babes.

They took them in as their own daughters, and as we traveled, they taught them the old ways of the ancient clans, the tribes of fierce women warriors who wielded the power of earth and skies.

We encountered many outlanders as we journeyed toward my own realm-lands and the refuge of my stronghold. We slaughtered them as wolves. For my own part, I was exceeding cruel, and made each pay his portion for the torture of my new wards.

As for the pair I found in that burned out village, I saw very little of them, so protective were the old ones. They traveled along with us, and from the stories I gathered, took to their studies as a man who thirsts dives headlong into the coldest stream. I let them be, though my heart longed for them. I would not take from them what so many infidels must have forced. I hoped in time to win their hearts as they had smote mine.

It was another long season until we reached the outlands of my realm, and the snow of winter threatened on the peaks of the mountains that ringed them. It was decided to make camp until the snows cleared and the high passes were once again open. I was mad to reach my own keep, but recognized the wisdom of Syr Va'ahl. We had journeyed far inland, league upon league from our ships at the coast. The high passes would make perfect ambush, and the snows might take the rest. Therefore, we found a defensible ridge and valley, and made camp for the winter.

T'was during these long winter months that I grew to know the pair I had rescued. Life in a winter camp lends itself easily to staying indoors around fires, and each evening, we would take the evening meal together, the sisters and I.

Neither of the sisters spoke very much, and would sit quiet for hours at a time, just watching the fire. I was exceeding curious about them, and asked them question upon question. Some they would answer, others not, preferring the crackle of the fire.

I learned they came from a realm not unlike my own country. High in the north, their people were fair-skinned and fair-haired. I learned with horror their own father had sold them into slavery to save his own skin. I cursed his name by all the gods and railed against his cowardice, but they did not stir.

In these days of winter, I sent many scouts over the high mountains to spy out the lands of my realm. The war against the infidels and my imprisonment had kept me from my lands for many, many seasons, and I needed to know if any warlord had claimed my lands as his own. Of course, we would drive them out, but such things need planning, and there is little else to do in winter but plan the spring campaign. Not one of them ever returned, which made me very uneasy.

During one such evening meal, I mentioned the loss of the scouts to the sisters. I told them I was disquieted by no report at all, even one of ill deeds befalling my lands. But nothing at all, it was very unnerving.

To this, the sisters spoke in hushed whispers to one another. It seemed they were almost arguing, but then all at once came to a conclusion. At last, the younger sister spoke. 

"My lord," she asked. "Is there a vessel for water here, flat with curved sides, such as a basin?"

I sent for one immediately, and a soldier soon brought me a hammered dish which seemed to satisfy the girls. I watched as the older sister made a small mound of sand, and placed the plate upon it, so that it rested exactly flat. Then the younger sister slowly poured clear water into the dish, until it was very near to overflowing. Then they sat on opposite side of the dish, very still and quiet, until the water in the basin became smooth as glass.

Slowly, they brought forth small cloth bags, and from them took different herbs and plants of the field. One ground them into tiny flakes in her hand and let them slowly sift down onto the surface of the water. Then the other slowly stirred them in, until they were completely dissolved in the water. Then they sat back and waited once more until the water became still and smooth.

At last they both leaned in close over the basin, so that the faces were nearly touching the water, and began to whisper low murmuring chants. They spoke together, their voices low and somewhat frightening, summoning words and phrases of ancient magick.

Slowly, almost as though a trick of the eye, the water began to swirl round the basin and shimmer. To my amazement, I began to see images in the water, moving fast, as if seen by a bird flying over a vast forest canopy.

Slowly I recognized the lands and rivers and fields of my homeland. But they were nothing like I remembered. Here and there were burned trees and scorched earth. Here a house with a thatched roof smoldered, here a woodland creature half burned and dragging itself across blackened grassland.

The images in the basin began to swirl faster and faster, so quickly where I could hardly make them out, until all at once it resolved on a clear image of my former stronghold. It lay in ruin. Battlements toppled, stone broken asunder, trees and fields burned black as pitch.

The sisters sat back from the basin and looked at each other, and the image in the water faded away. Then the younger looked to me.

"My lord," she said in a very low voice. "Your realm has been claimed by a dragon."



The Inquisitor Ch. 32



The princess sat back from her reading. In her mind, the terrible roar of the dragon sounded in her ears, and she stole quite a few glances at the great teeth of the dragon skeleton at the far end of the hall. She felt a moment of paralyzing fear, as if the beast would rear its head and come chomping for her. Though she chided herself for being so foolish, a nagging thought at the back of her mind gave her the strange feeling of being observed, though she knew she was alone in the chamber.

Shaking it away, and again wishing for some way to know the hour, she bent back to the text, hoping to find something within its pages.

- - -

Dragons! A scourge not seen in these lands for centuries. How could this be?

Of course it was drawn here, like moth to flame, after the treasure hold in my keep. Before my armies marched to war against the infidels, our halls gleamed with the spoils of conquest. How foolish I was to leave this place... so foolhardy was I to wage war on the Saracen, leaving home and hearth unguarded. Such easy pickings for a dragon... What a dolt I had been! And now my kingdom lay in the clutches of a dragon.

Dragons cannot resist the gleam of gold and the glint of gemstone. This is a widely known and accepted fact. Once they have sniffed the tangy scent of gold, they will hunt for it with all their cunning. T'was no wonder it came swooping down from the clouds to pounce upon my treasure stores. I left little defense against such as a dragon... why, no one had even seen one in over a hundred winters!

But the looking glass had shown what was left. Indeed, a great dragon had laid waste to my lands, and claimed mine own treasure for itself. My blood boiled within me as I envisioned it's terrible scaly shape, curled up upon a great mound of my gold.

A plan! A plan was needed. Dragons are not easily meddled with, and are most likely to tear you limb from limb, or burn you to cinder in the blink of an eye. One does not simply march up to a dragon and demand it hasten from its hearth.

I thanked the sisters with a soft kiss on each of their foreheads and bade them goodnight. I left them there in the firelight as the priestesses gathered round the sisters, cheering and congratulating their mastery of the looking glass.

I returned to my own tent and summoned Syr Va'ahl, who presently limped in, resting on his weathered staff. The winter months pained him terribly, but his eyes glinted. Though hardly any in the camp had not even heard of the dragon, the old man knew right away.

"Ah," said he as he entered my tent. "A great worm has decided it likes your castle, eh?" He cackled with glee and I shouted at him, to which a rock came flying in the open flap of my tent and struck me square in the forehead. I'd forgotten that little trick.

My head still smarting, I sat heavily in a chair, and glowered at my friend.

"Look here boy!" said Syr Va'ahl. "Shouting at me will not dislodge the monster from its lair, shall it?" I glumly agreed, and we set to work.

Whilst I still have the strength, I shall try to relate his words to me that night. Perhaps the soul who next reads these words may have a dragon to contend of their own.

On the subject of dragons, little was known in the lands of my realm. Old men recounted tales their fathers told them, but I could not name one living man who had ever seen one with their own eyes. All the knowledge of dragons in my land was merely myth and fireside tales.

But my wise companion seemed to know a great deal. Many times in our friendship have I wondered how many winters Syr Va'ahl has seen. Though his body tells the tale of at least eighty, the breath of his knowledge told of a much older being.

"Dragons..." he began, his voice still rasps in my failing ears. "were not always the minions of destruction they are today. There was once a time, so very long ago, when they live in peace among the creatures of the land. True, they were terrifying predators, and hunted in packs like wolves. But they did not fly, nor did they breathe fire. The stalked the woods and mountains and even jungles far south, and hunted as the wolf and the lion and the bear. They consumed meat, they mated, and they died, but they did not crave the gleam of gold. They had no use for such things."

"But that peace is no more. One by one, man hunted the great lizards, driving them with spear and fire. At last, men of strong will brought the great dragons under their heel. They bred them! They bred the dragons... this one with a larger one, this one with a faster one... Years and years and century upon century, the ancients bred the dragons together, taking the strongest traits and nurturing it to its fullest. Slowly, the dragons changed... They grew wings, they developed buds in their gullets which when their juices mixed together, shot forth great gouts of brimstone and fire."

"It was a terribly dark time. Men who controlled dragons controlled any realm they wished. Greedy men, who rode the winged beats and reigned from the sky. Gold! Always gold and gem they sought, adorning their scaly mounts with glittering magick stones."

"And then, the dragons broke free. No more would they live under the will of man."

"Hearken to me, boy!" he railed at me, as if I'd been dosing. "There is an ancient legend from the time when the dragons broke free. It tells of the last Dragon-king! An evil king, who commanded the darkest spirits of the night, and the wraiths of fire deep within the earth beckoned his call. T'was he who poisoned the dragon's soul."

"Power! Power he desired more than all others! And he summoned unto himself a great demon, and believed he could harness it... but instead it devoured him utterly. Loosed upon the world, the dark force found a home within the souls of the dragons, and it's evil poisoned them against man forever."

"This darkness that invaded the hearts of dragons lives on in this world. It is unending, and it hungers. It hungers and it craves, and it cannot be satisfied. That is why the dragons horde their golden treasures and glinting gemstones. It is all they knew before the darkness entered them, the gold and shiny stones which their master adorned their armour with, and this desire for more, more... it drives them from their darkened holes, and flings them into the air in search of more of it. Such a beast now lives somewhere below your stronghold, and has laid claim to your lands."

At last, I could hear no more, and shouted at him, demanding to know how all of this might help us in our present situation. This time I remembered to duck as another rock flew at my head.

"Ah!" he cried, cackling again. "Very good, boy! Perhaps one day you'll learn."

My strength ebbs little by little, and my sight grows dim, but I shall press on until the curse takes me over. My hope is that these words may come to aid after I have succumbed, and so I pen them with all speed I can muster.

We talked long into the night, Syr Va'ahl and I. Master and student once again, I listened to his tales and theories on dragons and their beginnings, of demons and their dark ways, and at last, we hit upon a plan.



The Inquisitor Ch. 33



The Queen had just finished the last lacings on the front of her bodice when a flourish of trumpets sounded through windowlets set high up in the chamber walls. Both the Inquisitor and the Queen looked up at the bright sound, and then back at each other.

"The Outlanders..." hissed the Queen, her eyes dark and brooding as they sky had been, just moments before.

"Yes, my Queen." said He, replacing his new contraption in a large chest. "The Tournamnent is set to begin at the twelfth hour. There is a little time left, if you'd like another session..." He let the question hang there.

The Queen thought a moment and then dismissed it with a wave.

"Nay... There is too much to do, too many moments have been wasted already." said She. "I must go and welcome our... guests."

She turned to go, and then stopped. "I haven't had time to ask you... will you fight in the Tournament?"

"No, my Queen. I haven't the..." he hesitated. "Your tastings of me have diminished my strength. It would not do to have me bested before the entire court. How could I strike terror into the hearts of your subjects after that?"

The Queen's smile grew, as she drank in thoughts of his humiliation. "You are right, tormentor. I cannot have my honor soiled by your own weakness." Her words bit like steel.

"Very well, then." She said, turning once more to go. "Then I shall expect to see you at the Revel. Perhaps you might rebuild your strength there... I look forward to seeing your golden mask among the writhing bodies."

"Tell your young ward I desire her presence on my balcony for the games. I would hate for her to miss her appointment with the Champions."

"Aye, my Queen. She has not forgotten." He said quickly. "I have sent her on an errand for me... a little instruction before she satisfies the winners. But she will be there at the appointed hour."

The Queen's eyebrows raised and she smiled. "Ah... very good then. I can't even imagine what you've got her doing... though I hope it's wet and sticky." 

Her smile full of malice and lust, she turned and left him alone in the Chamber of Delights.

- - -

Far below them, the princess tore through the pages before her. She found herself drawn into the King's writings, though she feared she would find nothing of use in time. She delved into the penned narrative once again.

- - -

Dragons, as everyone knows, are creatures of heat and fire. Their scaly skin and armour is thick and strong, and mortal weapons are puny against them. Only a weapon of tremendous power can fell one, and none such device remains in the world. Even if such a weapon could be found, a way to get past the dragon's steely armour must be discovered, a path to their soft underbelly, so protected by gem and scales. But for all their strength and hatred and power, they cannot abide the cold and snow of winter. As the first leaves color and fall, they seek out deep places within the earth. They sleep as sound as death in the rock and stone. They sleep sound, until the spring sun warms the entrance to their lair, and they smell the freshgrass and life renewed. When the sun is warm, they crawl up from their depths, and claw their way skyward in search of meat and flame.

This was the plan Syr Va'ahl proposed for dealing with our dragon. This was the weakness we must exploit if we hoped to succeed.

"We have precious little time." said the old man. "The first heavy snows of winter have already fallen. Soon spring will come across those mountains and all hope will be lost. We must complete our work before the sun warms again, or it will be too late."

"Dragons loathe the snow, and surely ours will have found a way underground. If my guess is right, it lies somewhere deep in the earth below the very walls of your castle. As you've already said, there is no passage below the deepest dungeon level, correct?

Correct indeed. When I left to wage war on the Saracens, there was none deeper than the dungeons and catacombs deep below the keep. There were legends that somewhere deeper than that was a great underground lake, but the deepest well did not even come near it. Syr Va'ahl seemed very pleased by this news.

My warriors and kinsmen had gathered with us as council of war, and we listened to his plan. The sisters joined us as well. In such days, women were never allowed in council, but my old master demanded their inclusion, and I did not need another rock to the head to realize he was correct. Their skill with the deep magick of the earth grew stronger day by day. I felt that the more sorcerers we had, the better off we would be.

So it came to pass, that we all gathered in the great tent, and sat round about the council fire, as Syr Va'ahl laid out his design.

He explained to us that since there were no passages down to the underground lake, a dragon lying below would rely on an existing tunnel or at the very least a system of caves, instead of attempting to claw his way through bare rock and stone. He told us if a dragon found even the smallest tunnel or passage, their strong legs and claws could tear a tunnel large enough for it within a few days. He was most pleased there was no other way for the dragon to get up.

"So," said the old man. "Our beast has found a way under the keep. It must have found a cave big enough for it to crawl inside and dig it's way down from there., as it could not have dug straight down... or at least we hope it did not."

The gathered crowd murmured their assent to this.

"So" he continued. "For now, we will assume it dug it's way in from outside the walls of the castle, and it uses that tunnel as the way in... and out.

"We must find that opening!" he proclaimed. "And we must do it very soon."

We all questioned him as to what we might hope to accomplish by this. He explained that if we could close the dragon's cave opening before the winter passed, the dragon might slumber on. If it felt not the warmth of the sun, he told us, it would sleep forever.

Great cheering, and great skepticism. Many warriors thought we should attack the dragon in its sleep, and I myself thought this a good plan. But Syr Va'ahl would not hear of it.

"No, strong one." said He. "Though the dragon sleeps now, it is still very dangerous. Their sense of smell if very, very keen. If you and your band of warriors tried to slink down it's tunnel, it would smell you coming, and fire and destruction is all you would find deep in the ground."

"No, my friends, you cannot sneak up on a dragon by stealth, even one that is sleeping."

More grumbles and murmurs, to which he held up his hand.

"Do not despair, my brothers. Though a dragon can smell you from very far way... their hearing is as feeble as an old man's. A sleeping dragon will dismiss a great deal of noise. Deep in the earth, the rocks and stone howl and shriek and crack from their own weight, and dragons ignore this completely, especially whilst they slumber for winter.

"So, my brothers... our only chance is to block up it's cave, whilst the snow still lies heavy. If we can block it up, I know of spells and deep bindings we can seal it with... our newest priestesses can help me with that" said he, acknowledging the sisters. "If we succeed, the dragon will most likely slumber beneath the castle for centuries."

Though we did not disbelieve the old man, the gathered company still had a good bit of doubt as we set off in search of the cave. We journeyed for days upon days, seeking shelter from the snows at night where we could. The spirits of my men was exceeding poor, and they quarreled amongst each other. The sisters, Syr Va'ahl and I traveled by horseback, but our mounts sank shank-deep in drifts of snow, and often times we struggled along on foot with the rest of our ragged company.

At last, the snows broke on the same day we discovered the monster's tunnel. The sun wrested free from the cold clouds and warmed our backs. Thankful as we were for the respite, the thought of the approaching spring hurried our steps.

An arm of the mountains far away in the East ran down in low, rolling hills of snow, and at their foot sprang a rocky outcrop of stone. There, beneath it's jagged crags lay the wide mouth of a cave. Syr Va'ahl warily approached the entrance, and from my horse I saw his long white hair blow inward, and back out again, pulled by the breath of a sleeping dragon, somewhere far below.

We set to work, and what a labour it was. The backs of my men groaned against the weight of the massive stones. They sealed the opening, stone by stone, and then the entire company moved two tremendous boulders across the opening by sheer will alone.

Once it was sealed, Syr Va'ahl and the sisters set to work upon the stones. I stood amazed as they wrought magick upon the seal, weaving words and power and metal into ribbons of biding, running through the very stone itself.

As spring crept over the mountains and the freshgrass sprouted all 'round, they sealed the tunnel with spells and incantation, with rune and magick. For nearly a fortnight they embued the great seal, until Syr Va'ahl proclaimed it finished.

We returned to our camp and waited. We waited to see if the beast below would claw its way through the seal. We waited and hoped. We waited, and all fours seasons drifted past. As another winter gave up its ghost, we began to breathe easier, the dragon did not emerge.

In the new spring, we left our mountain camp, and I at last returned to my castle. I must confess it was a sad sight, all in ruin.

But we set to work, my men, peoples of the land. Another year we toiled, until at last my keep had no equal, in this realm or any other. It was doubly strong, and crowned with two great towers at each end. Into one tower, we set a huge clock of metal and wheel, and all along Syr Va'ahl and the sisters wrought their magick bindings into the stones and walls and battlements and towers. The castle was once again glorious, and breathed in its own power.

- - -

Alas, if only I could pen that these happy days were the end of this tale. If only the sun set upon this tragedy with the banners of my keep flying in the breeze.

But alas, t'was only the beginning. T'was only the stillness before the breaking of the rain. And in the end, it was my own foolish greed that was my undoing.

It was in the time after we had sealed the great beast in its lair and were rebuilding the keep that I grew very close to the sisters. They had grown most powerful in the ancient ways of magick, and I hungered to know their craft. So at length, we studied together, I picking up scraps of magick here and there, they harnessing the wind and the rain, the fowls of the air.

I had loved them both from the beginning, since I first brought them out of captivity. But in our time together, I grew to love them even more. And so it came to pass that their beauty proved too much for me, and I at long last took them as lovers. I took them both into my bed, and we loved each other all.

Ah, what joyous times, as my castle returned to life. The sisters proved very skilled in the ways of lust, and pleasured me in countless ways.

And so, I loved them both, and they in turn loved me with all their hearts. But I was a much younger man, and a fool! In the fullness of time, my heart grew fonder of the younger sister. Though I still loved the elder fiercely, the heart of the younger more closely matched my own. Therefore, in the spring, under the Full Moon, I took the younger Chrysanthemum as my bride, and the elder Belladonna as my consort.

Alas, had I only known the sorrow my choice would cause, I would have left them both in the charge of the priestesses, and forsaken love altogether. But the heart keeps its own counsel.

- - -

The name, penned in the looping scrawl of the King, struck the princess like a slap in the face. Chrysanthemum... her own dear love; how could this be? She looked again at the volume, the pages yellowed with age. The book itself seemed far older than the princess and her maid put together. And the words described events passed long ago. But there it lay, the word... the name of her lost maid Chrysanthemum. 

As she sat amongst the books of the dragon hold, she remembered the words of her maid, how she had once been a noblewoman, but was cast down. In truth, she was once the Queen!

The Queen! The princess knew she had remained in the library within the dragon-hold for far too long, and that at the noon hour, she was to join the evil queen for the Games. But as she sat within the still and silent chamber, she knew she had not found what she sought. But as she read on, the words of the King's narrative began to fit together, and a plan formed in her mind.

- - -

And so it was, that the younger sister and I were joined, and the elder hated her for it. Though I knew it not then, I am only too aware now. In those days, all seemed well. I loved them both, and they in return loved me.

Many times they both came into my bed, and beguiled me with pleasures from daybreak until moonrise. I knew of no enmity between them, nor do I think even now that my dearest Chrysanthemum knew the depth of her sister's loathing. In our bed, they loved together, touch and caress, kisses and fondlings. What a fool I was, to think jealousy would not breed amongst us.

T'was in the summer, that I learned both my bride and my consort were with child. I was overjoyed and the entire realm rejoiced with us. Citizens and courtiers from all around came to pay respects and honour.

And so it was, that in the way these events go, I was delivered two sons. I held them aloft from the balcony, and the entire realm hailed the young princes. I was most proud, and thence decided to name the offspring of my consort Belladonna as mine heir. I thought it only just, as I choose her sister over her to be my bride. Chrysanthemum was most pleased by my choice, and held no ill will over it.

- - -

My sight fails, and I see that my hand grows very shaky. The curse has nearly taken me, but I must finish the tale, while I still have the strength. Perchance these words may still find fertile soil after I am consumed.

- - -

And so peace reigned throughout my realm. The fields replenished and life returned once again to my land. I lived in love, my wife and my consort together, and we joyed in our sons. One I named Tarquinne, son of Chrysanthemum, and the other named I Thornbow, son of Belladona. To Thornbow, I would one day bestow my crown and title, to his brother would I give the eastern lands and seas as his domain.

But news reached my kingdom of invaders to the south and east. Once again, the infidel Saracen marched 'neath his crescent banner into the outlands of my realm. War was upon us, and we were ill prepared.

Campaigns are fought with the blade of those loyal, but are won by the treasure-hold. This simple fact was the downfall of my rule. My treasure-stores were all but depleted by the dragon of old, and there was only so much tax I could wrest from my subjects before they revolted and took my head.

And so it was, that I confided in my consort Belladonna one night in our bed. I told her of the nvading hordes, and we discussed stratagems long into the night. For all of Chrysanthemum's sweetness and beauty, her sister far exceeded her in cunning and design. It was then that she proposed a plan... a plan to regain my lost riches.

My greed, my foolish greed. If only I had the chance again, I would let the invading hordes rampage across my lands to their heart's content. But I was willful and foolish and angry, and would suffer no armed force to have free reign upon my own realm.

My consort, the beautiful and cunning Belladonna, told me of an ancient magick. She told me of a way she might commune with the beast which slumbered below us, and somehow trick my gold away from it. So blinded by greed, I gave her leave to try.

Such a fool was I... had I known the evil I unleashed... but alas, as my sight and strength fail me now, I see now that every step of her plan was floored by deception.



The Inquisitor Ch. 34



Far above the princess, through countless layers of rock and stone, two sentries on guard at the castle's main entryway abandoned their previous pursuit of leaning on their poleaxes. They put their backs to the two massive spindles flanking the roadway, slowly raising the stout portcullis. From above them, trumpeters on the battlements heralded the arrival of the outlanders.

From over a low rise came the company of men. They passed through and between the throngs that had gathered in the fields below the castle walls, and were met with cheers as they passed. Many of the champions who marched with the outlanders took note of many men throughout the crowds who cheered not, but instead cast surly looks at them. They champions recognized the hardened faces of warriors, and though they spoke not of it between themselves as they passed, each marked it down in his memory.

The great tower clock struck ten bells as the chieftain Tymrilll slowly rode under the portcullis and arched sally port and into the great interior courtyard of the castle. His mount breathed thick fog in cool morning air. From 'round the primary and secondary battlements, the courtiers and citizens and soldiers of the Queen cheered the newcomers.

"Hail Champions!" "20 gold pieces on the red-armored lance!" "Blackshield shall dominate any swordsman!" Cries of jeer and adulation roared all around. Painted ladies of the court hooted and called with hungry lips to their favorites behind batted eyelashes.

At last the entire company had filed into the great courtyard, and stood waving to the crowd from their horses. Some flexed muscles for ladies, some made mad faces at children before breaking into hearty smiles, some held aloft their bright blades.

The crowd roared and cheered. And all at once, the deafening noise fell to a hush. High above them, the great Queen glided out onto her balcony and regarded the gathered crowd and the company of heroes assembled below.

Many of the champions stood dumbfounded, staring up open-mouthed at the vision who had appeared on the high balcony. She was resplendent in a long, flowing white gown. It was cinched tight at the waist, and her breasts filled it in a most appealing way. All thoughout the shimmering garment was woven gold and silver strands, and she positively gleamed in the morning sun. She raised her elegant hand and gave salute to the men assembled.

"Hail, worthy Champions!" said she in a powerful and regal voice. "Our realm is most honoured by your presence. Please, set feet upon our ground, and be welcome."

A new cry of cheer went up from the crowd. The Queen continued on, commanding the rapt attention of everyone.

"Our doors are always open to the Kinsmen of Our King, Comrades in arms! Imprisoners of the great and terrible dragon, we bid you most welcome!"

The roar ascended once again, thundering about the walls of the courtyard and beyond. At last they died down, and the great chieftain spurred his mount forward a few steps, retuning salute to the Queen. "Hail, mighty Queen! We, your Kinsmen are most pleased to return to these lands, and are most honored by your welcome! Twenty and five years have gone past since the last Tournament of the High Moon, and we rejoice with all who are gathered, and will stand with you this very night for the Rite!

The crowed roared again, many of the champions sending up laughing calls and whoops. "And don't forget the Revel, my lord!" cried many of his men! The gathered crowd laughed heartily with them. At last, quiet returned and Tymrilll finished his pleasantries.

"And so, mighty Queen Belladonna, we, your Kinsmen, salute you! Long may you reign in peace and beauty!"

Even the Queen's elegant hands could not quell the great cheer which went up. It's roar was resounded by the multitude assembled 'neath the castle walls. The cacophony of mingled sound ranged out for many, many minutes.

After an age, the Queen restored the peace, softly soothing the crowd back to her attention. At last, she spoke once again.

"We thank Tymrilll, the great Bear Chief, for his hearty words of kindness."

"We have prepared fine ground for the Games. Come, please be welcomed. Our stable hands will see to your mounts, our cooks shall see to your bellies, and a great many of my ladies in waiting and the ladies of court will be very glad to make your acquaintances later tonight at the Revel. At the tolling of twelve bells, the Games begin!"

- - - 

The Queen was true to her word. As she smoothly glided out of view aloft, stablehands took the outlander's mounts and led them away. Fresh hay was brought, and coats were brushed. They braided colorful bands of fine cloth into their manes and craftsmen saw to their shoes and saddles.

The men were immediately set upon by well-wishers and glad-handers. Hearty claps on the back and mighty guffaws of laughter and good cheer greeted them. Flagons of mead, fresh fruits, wines, soft cheeses and breads, all were happily brought forth. Jokes and stories and news of the outside world was exchanged with good humor.

Many of the men took but little to eat, preferring to complete without full bellies. But some of the beefy warriors took mead and wine and meat and bread, and ate heartily. Any who wished were led through the grounds, and pages and squires expounded on this and that, their tales growing taller than themselves.

Armourers took charge of the company's weapons and mail, sharpening arrows, affixing dullards to lances to avoid accidental skewerings. Swords were brightened, armour cleaned and polished until they gleamed like stars. Leather boots and girdings were mended, tunics sewn and patched with fine cloth. Each and all craftsmen to their duty, ordered to extend the utmost courtesy and hospitality to the Kinsmen of the King.

A fair number of the company were seen to by various citizens of the realm. Their red and painted lips greeted the men, and their arms and bodies enfolded them. As Tymrilll and a number of his lieutenants passed by a small alcove, he caught sight of one of his warriors, his member buried deep inside a dark-haired maiden. Tymrilll merely shook his head and walked on, smiling as he left his man to ram her again and again until she plucked him from inside her, moving quick and hungry to catch his spurting seed in her waiting mouth. 

Tymrilll and his captains were shown through various rooms and chambers. They were shown exquisite tapestries, weavings, high art and sculpture. All the wealth and power of the realm was turned out and polished for the outlander's visit and the coming festivities of the High Moon.

As they passed an enormous carving of a seductive nymph fashioned from smooth white marble, a man and another walked quickly past. He bumped shoulders with Tymrilll, hard enough for the chieftain to rest his hand upon the pommel of his sword. Tymrilll turned, meaning to playfully chastise the man for his rudeness, and was surprised to look upon the Prince.

"Ah, prince Tar Quinne... I must not have seen you there. Forgive me." Said Tymrilll, bowing a low half bow."

Tarquinne turned as well, and as he saw who he'd insulted, his sharp face immediately softened.

"Oh, Lord Tymrilll... the mistake was mine. Please forgive my hurry, I was completely absorbed in matters of state... was not looking where my steps were taking me." He returned the chieftain's bow, and the insult was forgotten.

"May I present our Royal Judge and Lord High Executioner." said Tarquinne, gesturing to the man who walked with him. The man was tall and strong, bedecked in long robes of black and crimson, and his head was hooded.

Tymrilll bowed very low, extending the proper courtesy for a personage of power and high rank. As he straightened, he began with the formal pleasantries of greeting.

"Hail, worthy Judge. Yours is an honorable esta..." Tymrilll stopped short, his eyes meeting those of the stranger behind their golden mask. His mouth hung open and he seemed at a momentary loss for words. He quickly recovered his wits and completed the greeting in proper fashion.

The Inquisitor returned the deep bow. "And to you, most noble Chieftain. May your days be long and your manhood even longer."

The prince's head quickly snapped round to regard the Inquisitor with incredulity. He was most surprised by the off-color and familiar remark made by the Royal Judge. In all the time Tarquinne had known him, he had never once heard him make even the smallest joke or pun. He was shocked for him to speak so roughly with a noble visitor, but to his credit he said nothing, choosing instead to look confused.

Even more surprising was the great guffaw of hearty laughter from the outlanders and their chief. They laughed and boasted and jeered as to who among them most fit the witty response. Even the Inquisitor's usually blank face bore a wide smile 'neath his golden half-mask.

Seeing the prince's confusion, Tymrilll explained the less formal greeting of soldiers past, and the prince seemed to accept this answer, supposing perhaps they had served together in some campaign long ago. Perhaps that was the reason for the Inquisitor's mask, perhaps his face had been horribly maimed. Tarquinne hurriedly said his goodbyes. As the prince and the Inquisitor walked away, Tymrilll caught a backward glance from the robes man. Though no words were spoken, the great Chieftain understood.

- - -

Far below them, the princess had at last discovered what she sought. She replaced the books and scrolls and hastened from the Library Within the Dragon-Hold. She pushed against the great door with all of her weight, until at last it locked again with a deep resonating click.

She hurried up the winding stair, up from the depths below the castle. She snuffed the torches as she ascended, leaving the passage behind her dark as night.

She was terribly winded when she at last reached the lading at the top. She stood still for a good while, letting her breathing return to normal and listening for anyone who might be waiting inside her chambers. 

After long minutes of silence, she decided to take a peek inside. All was still within her chambers, and she felt certain she was alone. She quickly entered, locking the door behind her and heading straight for the bathing chamber, where she returned the old key to its hiding spot.

As she passed the looking glass, her reflection made her stop short. She was a mess, hem of her dress ratty and soiled, a bodice lacing frayed, hair wild and dark. Eleven bells struck from the great tower clock, and the princess breathed a great sigh of relief, and began to draw a bath.

As the hot water began to fill the basin, she thought again of her lost maid, Chrysanthemum, and hot tears welled up in her eyes. She shook her head and blinked them away, but as she bathed, they fell like rain.

Her poor dear love, lost! Gone forever from this world, taken by the hands of her own blood. Her love, her Chrysanthemum, a maiden who had once been Queen, devoured by the evil within her sister. The princess cried bitter tears for the maid. As the steam rose from the water's surface, the will and resolve of the princess doubled and redoubled.

This very night, Chrysanthemum, the King, and her father would be at last be avenged! 



The Inquisitor Ch. 35



When the princess emerged from her bath, she found the Inquisitor waiting impatiently by her bed. 

"By the Gods, woman! Where have you been?' he snapped. "The hour grows late!" Seeing her, he caught himself and softened his tone.

"Were you successful, my princess? Did you find what you searched for?

A slight bow, her hair still dripping from her bath in shining droplets down her smooth back. "Yes, my Lord. I believe I did!"

"A great many questions have I found answers to." she continued. "I know now what evil lurks inside our Queen, and I may have uncovered a way to defeat her."

The Inquisitor listened to all she had discovered in the Library of the Dragon-Hold. Some of here tale, he knew already, and much he had guessed. But as to weapons he might devise, he listened intently.

"What we seek lies here... in this castle! The old man, Syr Va'ahl hid it here in a secret place known only to him, before the Queen banished him.

"Here? In the Castle? But where?" he asked. "I well recall the writings of the King, and there is no hiding place mentioned.

"That's just it, my Lord." She explained. "The King would never have known it. He was already cursed and locked away by the time Syr Va'ahl hid it."

"It was on the day the Queen and I went walking on the battlements, before she sent us to the outlander's camp." continued the princess. "The Queen let it slip, but I knew not its meaning then.

"We were walking along, and she was fuming about the outlanders, and what to do with them. And she mentioned the setting of the sun, and the golden strands and ribbons which entwined about the castle walls."

"Yes." said he. "The magick blessings and talismans the sisters laid into the walls at their rebuilding."

"The very ones, my Lord!" She exclaimed. "But they also hide a secret. I think that at the setting of the sun, they reveal a secret hiding place here in the castle, where the old wizard hid what we seek."

The Inquisitor looked as if he'd been physically struck.

"Of course." said He. "The old dog! Of course he would have wrought some secret place within the walls. How could I have not seen it sooner? The way the castle is aligned, how the setting of the sun on the day of the High Moon... its rays pass directly through the arched tunnel, don't they?

"By the Gods!" he exclaimed, and dashed from the room.

- - -

The princess was left alone once again. She stood dripping still wet from her bath, thick towel wrapped round her warmly.

She dried her self, and brushed her long dark hair until it was the sheerest silk. From the beautifully carved dresser, she found a gown of the deepest green. It had belonged to her lost love, and she found it fitting to wear it on such an occasion.

The slipped into the gown, and laced its golden laces across her bare chest. Her breasts strained at the lacings, and as she caught sight of herself in the looking-glass, she smiled a wicked smile. Her blue bond-stone shone brightly against the smooth skin of her graceful neck.

She perfumed her skin from the many bottles and trinkets, selecting at last a hint of orange blossom. She softly brushed shimmery powders over her cheeks and forehead, and her face shone with light. Her lips she rouged with strawberries, until they were sweet to taste.

Satisfied with her reflection, she laced on soft slippers with ribbons that wound round her soft calves up to her knees, and left her chambers.

- - -

As she passed into the antechambers and through the Inquisitor's Chamber of Delights, she noticed first the noise. Deep rumblings, clankings and hissings were all around. Everywhere gears and wheels turned with clunks and groans. The great bellows worked up and down, fanning the roaring flames within the furnace to white hot.

As she passed through, she saw a small door she had never noticed before. In truth, most times she'd been in these chambers, she'd been occupied by the machines or too overwhelmed by pleasure to notice anything else.

Within the small door lay another room, a small workshop. Through the open door, she could see her master pass hurriedly back and forth, bringing different objects to a worktable. Over the din of the rumbling machines, she could hear the clink and tinkle of glass bottles and tins.

She approached slowly, and risked a peek inside the workshop. All around the walls were shelves lined with all sorts of bottles, chests, boxes and sacks. Large and small, reds and greens and blues and browns and black, containers of all sorts and sizes filled every space on the shelves and tables throughout the workshop. Every measure of wall space was covered with parchments and papers. Mechanical drawings of every sort, devices she could not even fathom, some for torture, some for war, some for agriculture, and a great many that even the princess could divine were for pleasure.

"My Lord...?" she said softly, as he bustled about in the workshop. He paid her no heed as he added this powder and that into a large stone mortal and pestle. Though she could not be certain, his form and shape appeared fuzzy and indistinct again. The princess told herself it must be a trick of the dim light. "Is there anything I might do to help you, my Lord?" she asked at last, his frenetic pace dizzying.

He stopped for a moment, as if unsure what step to take next, and he turned to regard the princess. Distractedly he murmured some response, and the princess turned to go.

"Ah, wait a moment. There is something." He said, regaining his thoughts. "You look most becoming, my dear. Chrysanthemum's gown is quite lovely on you."

"It is time..." he continued. "for you to join the Queen for the Games. I need you to distract her, my princess. It is imperative! You must keep her occupied this evening at sundown. If we are to have any chance of success, I must have the objects Syr Va'ahl has left behind in the secret vault. Without them, all hope is lost, and it will be another twenty and five years before we can try again!"

The princess opened her mouth to put forth questions, but he silenced her with a wave of his hand.

"No, my princess. There is no time. You must go. I must finish this ... fear not, I shall bring it to thee before the Rite. Remember all you have learned, trust in me, and perhaps all will be right. Now hurry!"

With that, he turned his back and delved once again into his powders and potions. The princess hurried from the chamber and up the long, winding stair. As she reached the courtyard, she could hear trumpetings and cheers not too far away. She followed the sounds and made her way through the crowds, until at last she reached the tournament grounds.

There had been constructed a large viewing stand, ranging along the Field of Games. It was not terribly high, but long and narrow, and constructed of step-like teirs. These were crammed full with spectators, nobles and commoners alike, all waving banners and cheering.

In the very center of the gallery, stood a higher balcony, with wide stairs climbing to it. The princess could only assume it to be the Queen's viewing box, and she began to climb up. As she climbed, she overheard several evil hisses as she passed some of the Queen's ladies-in-waiting. One of them even stuck out a foot to trip her, but the princess saw it coming, and quickly side-stepped it.

As she reached the top, she found the Queen, resplendent in her radiant gown, seated upon a large comfortable throne of dark wood. Seated next to it was a smaller, yet soft looking chair, and next to it, another throne, not nearly as ornate and richly carved, but beautiful nonetheless.

The Queen looked up at her as she reached the box. "Ah. There you are, my dear. I was beginning to think you might miss the festivities,"

The princess leaned forward and gave the Queen a very passionate kiss on the lips. "Oh no, my Queen. I would not disobey your command." Her face was flushed and pink.

"I must admit I had to hurry to make it on time... My master... he had me... to attend to an errand for him. Please forgive the late hour."

"Ah, think nothing of it my dear." said the Queen with an airy wave of her hand. The Queen seemed in high spirits, and her smile was radiant and stunning. Slowly, her pink tongue slid along her lips seductively as she tasted the princess' kiss.

"Mmm." she said. "Strawberries... delightful!" She gestured toward the smaller seat next to her.

"Please be seated, my dear." She said. Again she tasted her lips as the princess sat, eyeing her body as she did. "Indeed, you must have been attending the Inquisitor... I can still taste him on you." She whispered to the princess as she composed her skirts about her upon the little chair.

Leaning closer, the Queen whispered to the princess' ear. "I'm sure he had you attending to your lessons, did he not?"

"Yes, my Queen... he did."

"Ah, very good, and an apt pupil you are." whispered the Queen, her lips very close to the princess' ear and neck. She could feel the hot breath of the Queen on her neck, and quivered in spite of herself. "Perhaps I shall give you a lesson as well,,, your master introduced me to a wonderful new contraption today. I think you might enjoy it." 

"Ooo." purred the princess. "I would like that very much, my Queen."

The Queen continued to whisper sweet nothings to the ear of the princess, her long graceful hands sliding along the princess' legs, down her back, across her bosom, her fingertips lingering on her hardening nipples, giving the slightest tweak before continuing along their soft journey of touches. Thought the princess loathed the Queen, her body felt an irresistible pull towards her, a nearly overpowering desire to ravage her there in front of the entire assembly.

At last, she shook her head to clear away the swoon. "My goodness." sighed the princess. "My Queen, you have excited my greatly."

"That is good, my dear. I am most pleased." said the Queen.

"I've a thought..." she continued. "You shall accompany me this night and serve me in the Rite of the High Moon. I choose you as my consort, and you shall pleasure me in the Rite."

"Yes, my Queen. I would be most honored." cooed the princess. Leaning closer to the Queen's ear, she said softly. "I had greatly hoped you would choose me. My master told me he is constructing a grand implement for me to pleasure you with, should you choose me as your consort."

To this the Queen was greatly surprised. "I am most pleased to hear it, my young beauty." said She. "A new device... I am most anxious... his contraptions always feel so good." she said, giving the princess a knowing wink.

Just then, a new blast of trumpets filled the air strident tones, and from the long end of the Tournament grounds rode the great chieftain and his company of outlanders and champions. On the far side of the ground ran another long grandstand, crammed with commoners and peasants.

As they rode in, the Queen leaned over to the princess once again, and said very softly, "Before the sun rises, those beautiful men down there will all know my power. Not one of them shall see another moon... and I shall eat them up!" 



The Inquisitor Ch. 36



The champions rode in on heavy horse, adorned with armor and brightly colored banners. From their saddles, they held aloft flowing standards of matching colour which snapped in the crisp air. Each man wore a different shade, and each bore a crest of their ancestors. Some displayed wild boar, others mighty castles, and others still wore they crest of the dragon.

Lord Tymrill was among this group. The princess supposed, and rightly so, that they belonged to the King's company which had imprisoned the dragon so long ago. Each of these men wore the deepest crimson and black, and across their breastplates roiled the ancient seal she had seen carved into the door guarding the ancient dragon hold. Though her readings had answered many questions, it had raised even more. How could these same men have fought with the King so long ago, as the pages in the book seemed worn by countless years? How was there a passage leading down to the dragon hold, when Syr Va'ahl had been so adamant the dragon could use its weakness to escape its prison?

The princess sat with the Queen and watched the gallant pageantry unfolding on the Tournament grounds below. Flowing patterns of moving shapes formed and reformed as the champions and company performed astounding shows of horsemanship. Close quarter drills and furious displays abounded as the company at last came to a crisp halt in a long line stretching the length of the grandstands, Lord Tymrill in the direct center, just below them. Without command, each champion snapped up his visor and issued a sharp salute to the Queen, who in turn gave each a small bow of her head in tribute.

As the formation broke up, each man and company headed off to their respective events, until only Lord Tymrill remained, motionless before them. At last he spoke in a loud and commanding voice.

"Hail, worthy Queen Belladonna. You honour us with your invitation, and we shall honour the Mistress of the Moon with display of glory!" To this the crowd roared and cheered.

The Queen stood from her tufted throne, and a hush fell over the crowd.

"And to you, mighty Kinsman from the North! Welcome once again to our kingdom. It has been far too long. If you compete not in these games, then join me here and enjoy their glorious spectacle. To all those who shall compete, may the Mistress of the Moon show mercy upon you and keep you from all harm. Let the Games begin!" To this, the crowd roared as one voice, the sheer magnitude of sound an audible force.

The great chieftain below dismounted, and a lowly page took his horse's reigns, leading it from the field. The crowd gathered below the Queen's viewing box parted before him, and he strode confidently up the stairs, bowing low before the Queen and her guest, the princess. When he saw her, a broad smile creased his weathered face, and he bowed lower still.

Pleasantries and courtesies were exchanged, and the Queen bade Tymrill be seated upon the other comfortable chair. Lord Tymrill eyed it as if it were a snake. 

"Surely I should not sit upon the seat of the King, my lady." He said, shocked by her notion. He looked all about as if he might actually see the King rise up and admonish him.

"Do not trouble yourself, my Lord." Responded the Queen, flashing her brightest and most devastating smile. "All in this realm know the King has fallen ill. And all know you are his closest kinsman. Not a soul in this kingdom would feel it a dishonour for you to sit at my side." She let the sentence hang there in the air, as if perhaps the realm desired him to be named consort or perhaps even ruler in the King's stead.

Lord Tymrill looked concerned, looking back across the field at the grandstand of commoners and subjects. At last, he shook his head and slowly sat upon the throne. There they watched the proceedings unfold. Lord Tymrill upon the throne of the King, with the princess next to him on his right, and the Queen next to the princess in a throne of her own, even grander and beautiful than the King's.

- - -

Below them, the games raged on. First came the bowmen, longbows polished until the wood shone with deep amber light. The thok of their arrows striking the mark was punctuated by cheers and howls from the gathered masses,

Next came the sword. Armored men battled and banged at each other for what seemed hours, A champion would rise, only to be challenged by an even more formidable opponent. The ring of sword against sword and the clatter of metal against metal sounded out over the field. In the distance, men on horseback put their mounts through practice runs, preparing for the mounted joust.

At long last, a victor emerged from the meleé that was the sword competition. His once bright armour was dented and scuffed, but his ruddy face smiled a wide smile, and he extended a hand to each he had laid low. Sportsmen all, they laughed and congratulated him on his victory. The princess caught his glance, and he bowed low. In spite of herself, she blushed and grew hot, knowing that it would not be long until his prowess would be displayed to her as well.

At the last, came the mounted joust. As they horsemen took the field, another tremendous cheer went up from the crowd. This was their favourite event, and each had their favorite. Money and coin exchanged hands as bets were laid and the joust began.

The first was adorned in deep red leather armor, laid over with a coat of bright mail. His horse was festooned with red and green, and he thundered down the run toward his opponent. Grasps and groans from the crowd as lances connected, one pass, two passes, and a third, unseating his opponent with a terrible crunch.

Cheers and whoops sounded as the defeated lost his horse to the victor and was helped up by squires. The victor dismounted and clapped him on the back, softening the blow of losing such a prized possession. They shared wide smiles and good humored jabs as they left the field. Cheers and hoots as money exchanged hands, losers calling rematch, victors testing the clarity of gold with gnarled teeth.

The joust raged on, the crunch of lance against armour, the grunt of men taking sharp blows. One braggard knocked clear from his horse by a much smaller and less seasoned opponent was met with jeers and catcalls as he slunk away, his younger counterpart waving mightily to the crowd.

The tournament wore on until late in the afternoon. At one point during the games, a glint of metal from the commoner's stand caught the eyes of those in the Queen's viewing balcony. The Queen leaned close to the princess, whispering.

"Ah... I see you master there below." She said, pointing to where the tiny shine had occurred. As the princess squinted, she caught sight of the robed Inquisitor amongst the cheering masses across the field. The Queen gave him a slight wave, but he returned it not.

"Hmph." said the Queen. "Probably sulking because he knows what awaits you... jealous old fool. Can't bear to watch his precious slave pleasure all of the champions at once, I'm sure." The princess said nothing. The Queen returned her attentions to the games, and the princess made small talk with Lord Tymrill.

"Tell me Lord Tymrill of the great crest which you wear." she said.

"Ah..." he said. "Many seasons ago, we traveled with our kinsman, your King, to these lands, after he escaped from the land of the infidel. We bore him safely to his home, only to find it had become lair to a terrible dragon."

"We jailed the beast in the very ground in which it slept. Walled it in as the old monks do their dead." said he, in a voice which tellers of ghost stories invariably employ, grave and sincere. "And there it remains to this very day!" he added with a devilish smile.

"Those of us who were among the company all wear the crest of the dragon as badges of honour." he finished.

"And a mighty deed it was." said the Queen, overhearing their conversation. "Our realm is forever grateful to you and your men, Lord Tymrill."

"T'was long ago, your highness." responded Tymrill. "I was a much younger man then." To the princess he added. "Young and brave... and foolish. I remember swearing to go down and vanquish the beast all alone. Ha! What folly! But the wizard who traveled from the desert lands with us... you might recall him... the old man who cackled and laughed and caused such a ruckus when you came to visit our camp?" The princess nodded, but said nothing more about Syr Va'ahl. The Queen heard him mentioned as well, and her back stiffened. 

"Ah." thought the princess. "So she did not know he sojourns with the outlanders still." The thought made her laugh to herself, but she kept a still exterior.

Lord Tymrill took no notice of the Queen's discomfort, barreling on through his tale.

"Yes," said the chieftain. "The very same. When I proposed we slay the dragon, he railed at us all, and would have none of it. He was most clear that no one was to go down into it's lair or anywhere near the dragon, as I remember."

"T'was he who proposed we wall it up, seal it inside the earth, where it would sleep forever; unawakened by the warmth of spring and summer. You know, as I recall, I believe your Queen wrought magick upon the seal as well." he said, gesturing towards her. "A mighty good plan as it turns out, as the beast did not emerge, and still slumbers to this day."

The Queen could stand no more of this prattle, and snapped a curt response. Tymrill caught the inflection in her voice and let the subject drop. The princess was amused by the vexation of the Queen, but said no more.

The games wore on as the sun sank lower in the sky. By the time a victor was decided, it had turned to deep golden hues of scarlet and blue. On the field below, the victor sat unsteadily on his horse. He'd taken on every challenger, and he alone remained afield, all other long since retired. From her lofty perch, the princess recognized him as one of the guards who had accompanied her and Chrysanthemum back from the outlander's camp.

Much ale and mead had flowed throughout the day, the crowd was loud and boisterous. As the sun sank even lower, the Queen rose to announce the champions of the tournament to the cheering crowd. Drunken as they were, the crowd grew still as the Queen stood to address them.

"Champions, competitors, and citizens of the realm... Glorious has this day been!" Much cheering. "Behold, I give you your Champions!" The cheering grew as she announced the winners of the bow, the sword, and the lance. At last they died down and the Queen continued.

"Today has seen much sport... and I am much pleased with all of our guests. If the champions declared this day will join us here on this balcony, they shall receive their reward."

"To every citizen of the realm, and to our guests from the North... as everyone knows... tonight.... is the High Moon! This time the crowd went wild, singing and joyous celebration ensued.

"I have smelt the cook-fires all this day." continued the Queen. "And tonight there shall be such a feast that all will remember this day!" As she spoke, she cast a knowing look to the princess. "And this very night, under the High Moon, all of the faithful are welcomed. Come and join us as we invoke the Rite of the High Moon. If any among you wish to pay homage to the Mistress and join in the Revel, join with us in celebration under the night sky!" The crowd could be contained no longer, as cheering and rejoicing throngs flowed from the grandstands and into the tournament field.

The princess saw two men begin to climb up from the field below as the crowds began to disperse and head for their places. From across the land, happy song and good food flowed freely. The princess grew nervous as she watched the sun slip lower on the horizon. She remembered her master's warning, and hit upon a plan of distraction.

As the two champions gained the balcony, the Queen flashed them her brightest smile.

"What ho, valiant champions. Come so quick to claim your prize, I see." She shot the princess a wicked glance. "But pray, where is the third. Champion of the bow, I believe."

"Your forgiveness, mighty Queen." said the Champion of the Sword. "Our bowman cannot claim his reward."

"What?" she snapped. "Explain yourself."

"After he completed the display of skill with the bow, he decided to enter the sword event as well, your majesty. I am sad to say he was injured, not gravely, my lady, but enough that he is weakened and attended by our surgeons."

"But... this will not do!" stammered the Queen. The princess felt the air grow colder, and knew the Queen was growing angry. "I have promised this girl as sport! And now there is no third for her!" The princess felt the frightening crackle in the air.

The princess spoke up quickly. "Fret not, my Queen. I choose Lord Tymrill for my Third Champion." Tymrill's eyes grew wide and his mouth fell open.

The Queen softened, and her eyes grew sly and cunning. "Lord Tymrill, you say?"

"Yes, my Queen." Continued the princess, pouring it on thick. "I lay with him when we were sent to their encampment, and I must admit... I have not forgotten him."

The Queen mulled it over. Clearly she'd had other plans for the great chieftain, but in the end, she decided the further humiliation and subservience of the princess was a suitable alternative.

"Very well." She snapped. To the champions, "You may take her away."

The princess thought quickly. "Wait, my lady!" she blurted. "I was hoping... It was my hope you might... look upon us as the Champions claim me."

The Queen turned fully around to look square at the princess. Her face was a mask of surprise. "Do you mean... you desire me to watch as they ravage you?"

"Yes, my Queen." said the princess, bowing her head low. "I serve you, do I not? I know it would please you greatly to watch these fine men take me."

To all of this, the two champions and their chieftain looked on in amazement. Truly they had never witnessed such an exchange in all of their days.

The Queen's eyes grew hungry and her smile grew even more wicked. "You are learning well, my young one. Yes. I should enjoy that very much... and you shall please them all! Here, in this very balcony... let me see you pleasure them before me!"



The Inquisitor Ch. 37



As the sun slipped lower in the sky, the Inquisitor made haste from the tournament grounds. The fields were some distance away from the castle and the light was fading fast. His robes flew about him as he hurried along. People in the crowd made way for him as he passed, whispers of "Lord High Executioner", "fiend" and "Gods protect us" swirling about.

He paid them no heed, but carried on along his single-minded course. With each step, the sun sank lower and lower in the evening sky. His mind raced and willed his feet faster, but he dared not run. Too obvious a display would bring suspicion, and he could not afford a mistake.

After what seemed an eternity, he entered through the portcullis gate and into the courtyard. He mounted the stairs two at a time, guards gave unreturned salute as he passed. At last he reached the upper walk, and made for the tunnel running through the golden tower.

- - -

As the Queen looked on, the princess attended to the armour of Lord Tymrill, and the in turn the two champions. Each piece of plate and mail she took off and laid very carefully in precise stacks, careful not to cause even the slightest scratch. At last all three men stood in the tunics and animal furs, as she'd seen them in their camp. She preferred their rugged clothes to the bright and shining armour, and dazzled each with the sweetest smile.

As for the men, though they had been promised a worthy prize, each felt a bit awkward as they allowed her to undress them before the Queen. But the princess paid them extra care and attention, putting each at ease.

At last, she began to undress herself. She undid her lacings very slowly, allowing her hands and fingertips to run across her body, to softly touch her breasts and nipples through their fine gown. Out came a lacing, followed by another, until her breasts hung free of their confinement. Slow, slow she arched her shoulders back, and her gown slipped from them, sliding down her smooth skin in a delicious rustle of fabric. There, before the chieftain and his champions, before the Queen, before anyone who chose to gaze up toward the Queen's viewing balcony above the tournament field, the princess stood naked in the gathering cool. As she felt her nipples harden in the chill air, she watched as the sun at last slipped past the tallest tree, and down below the horizon. Casting a quick glance, she desperately relieved to find the Queen gave the sun no heed, but instead filled her eyes with the sight of the princess and her beautiful body.

- - -

Within the tunnel passageway, the Inquisitor noted an eerie change to the runes and ribbons which scrolled and spiraled throughout the walls, ceiling and floor. To his eyes, they appeared almost alive. They coursed with a strange golden light, like a pulse running through veins and arteries. As he watched, he discerned this pulsing was in fact the last rays of the sun, their light and heat coursing through the golden ribbons like a current. They flowed from the direction of the setting sun, under his feet, over his head, all around. He watched the light and followed its course.

As the sun was only the tiniest speck of crimson dancing above the western treetops, a thin beam of light, dazzlingly bright, shot through a tiny chink in the stonework of a western battlement. So bright was the beam, that the Inquisitor nearly dove out of its path as it blazed through the tunnel, shining directly upon a single point in the far wall of the courtyard below. Only a moment it remained, and then the sun slipped below the trees and the eerie glowing, pulsing light was gone.

All pretense of subterfuge abandoned, the Inquisitor raced across the battlement, down the stone stairs, to the very spot where the ray of sun had alighted.

- - -

True to her word, as the sun went down, the princess began to pleasure the men assembled in the Queen's balcony. As each stood before her and the Queen, looking back and forth with rather befuddled looks upon their faces, the princess sank down to her knees before Lord Tymrill.

From beneath his finely woven tunic, she withdrew his manhood. She looked up at him as she did so, giving him a sad pout as she found him unprepared. Even soft, it lay heavy in her hand, a meaty snake. She began to gently squeeze and play with it, stroking it gently until it stood out hard and strong. His member throbbed, bouncing before her face.

The Queen looked on as the princess opened wide her soft lips, and drew his massive cock into her mouth. It was warm and alive on her tongue as she slid her mouth along its girth. She opened wide her throat, taking him to the hilt before slowly withdrawing from it, her tongue sliding along its underside and up over its bulbous head.

The great chieftain let out a low moan as she sucked him. She took his cock into her mouth again and again, slathering it with her tongue, until it was raging hard. Satisfied it had reached its potential, the princess did the same for the two champions.

Though their members were no equal to their lord's, she coaxed each man until he stood out hard as steel. She noted with pleasure their moans of satisfaction, her eyes at times catching the Queen's, who looked on eagerly. With her mouth and hands and tongues, she pleasured each man in turn, going from one to the next, at times taking two cocks into her slippery mouth. But she would not allow them to give over to the pleasure. When she sensed one was growing close, she abandoned his pikestaff and serviced another.

At last the men were howling for release. She abandoned their members and got to her feet. She stood naked and proud before them, looking down with pleasure as their cocks bobbed up and down from the throbbings.

She laid one of the long furs belonging to Lord Tymrill down lengthwise one the planks of the balcony. To the Champion of the Sword, she bade him lie down on his back. As if under a spell, he could not get down quickly enough, nearly falling over himself to get there. She noted again as she straddled him that it was the very same guard from their ride back to the castle. She remembered the maid going down on his raging erection in the forest, and smiled to herself.

As he lay on his back at the feet of the wicked Queen, the princess guided his cock into her. It slid smoothly inside, its girth filling her deliciously. She rode him as he thrusted up into her, getting her juices flowing, until his cock made slippery noises as her entered her again and again. She felt her arousal build as he fucked her.

With the swordsman's cock deep inside her sex, she then bade the Champion of the Lance to come 'round behind her. As she rode up and down on the man below her, she slowed, and he needed no instruction. She felt the head of his raging cock against her puckered ass. Slowly and intently, he entered her from behind.

The princess came at once as he slid his cock into her ass, as the man below her drove his own cock deeper into her sex. She felt her desire grow as the men began to pump away. Though they did not slam themselves into her, their great cocks filled her up, even more than she had first imagined.

"Oooh!" she moaned as they penetrated her both behind and before. "yes, my lords! Fill me... give them to me!"

As she rode their cocks, she fixed her eyes upon the Queen's. The Queen's face was hungry and her mouth was open and wet, her tongue sliding along her supple lips. The princess could see her nipples were rock hard under her bodice, standing out, two erect points beneath the shimmering cloth.

"Oh they're fucking me, my Queen." She moaned. "Oh... fucking me so good!" As the princess watched, the Queen grasped the folds of her gown, drawing it up slowly inch by inch. The princess knew the Queen would not be able to resist having her fingers play as she watched the men drill into her.

The man behind began to plunge himself deeper into her backside, and a new wave of pleasure overtook the princess. Grasping the cock of the mighty chieftain, she pulled his cock to her mouth and began sucking it again. Before, behind, in her mouth, cocks filled her every opening. Their hands played with her hanging breasts, pulled her hair, spanked her cheeks.

When the princess caught sight of the Queen, she saw her playing and fingering herself as she watched the men ravage her. They began to fuck her harder, she taking Lord Tymrill's cock to its hilt again and again, the men below and above sliding into her, into her, into her, again and again. She felt the man behind her grow harder still as he slammed her from behind. All at once, he gave over, cumming again and again into her rear. 

"Oooh!" she cried. "It's so hot! Oh... so hot in my ass, mistress!" As she watched, another finger disappeared into the Queen. He fucked her ass until he had none left to give, at last withdrawing, sliding down to sit panting beside them. It was not long before the man below her could take no more, releasing into her.

"Yes!" she wailed. "You give me it! Fill me with it!" The princess rocked down on his cock again and again as his hot sperm shot out. The princess did not worry a child may spring from his issued; she had drank down the last of the dram her maid had given her n the night they visited the outlander's camp. As she took his climaxing cock, another finger disappeared, sinking deep into the Queen. Her sex shone with wetness in the twilight.

At last, all that was left was the mighty bear, the chieftain Tymrill. His cock was blue steal in her mouth, her face buried against his stomach as his fingers entwined in her flowing dark locks. Again and again she drew him in and let him out, her hand sliding along its shaft, her other attending his balls.

Over and over she swallowed his giant cock, her jaw and mouth sore from it. But still she continued, sucking hard, licking soft, her tongue exploring his opening with it point. This proved the final straw, as his cock jerked against her probing tongue, hot seed spurting across it and into her waiting mouth. He came again and again as she milked his cock to it's very last.

As he withdrew from her, the Queen's hand shot out quick as a flash, roughly grasping the princess by her arm. She dragged the princess close to her, so close her face was almost touching her own.

"Give it to me, my love!" she growled. The princess opened her mouth to the Queen's tongue, and kissed her long and deep, She felt the Queen's impossibly long tongue probe her mouth, seeking out the very last drop of the great chieftain.

When at last it was done, they all were still for a very long. They regained their breath as faint stars began to emerge in the night sky.



The Inquisitor Ch. 38



The Inquisitor searched the wall where the last rays of the sun had shone. It had slipped below the horizon and the sky above began to darken slowly. No trace of an opening, no crack, not a sign remained of the spot where the sun had shone. Not another living soul inhabited the courtyard, all having gone off to drink and dine and prepare for the Rite and the Revel. Not even the castle guards patrolled along the battlements.

Growling in frustration, he beat his fists against the wall. Small grains of sand sifted down around his boots. His shoulders sunk low, and he stepped back from the wall. It was only then that he noticed a peculiar design in the stonework. Though the writhing, weaving golden threads and ribbons ran hither and yon, in the spot where the sun's ray had shone, they swirled about into a single point. As he studied the runes and strands, he began to realize they seemed to all stem from a single point, the very point where the beam had alighted.

"How could I not have seen it before!" he thought. As he gazed all around about at the ribbons, his suspicions became clearer and clearer. Though the strands and ribbons streamed all about the castle walls, they all issued from this one spot.

With a hand that trembled slightly, he slipped off his thick glove and pressed his fingertip to the spot. From somewhere deep within the wall, a low rumble issued. A grating noise, and the block containing the secret spot slid inward, revealing a small hidden chamber in the block below. All about the castle walls, the ribbons and strands became dull and brassy, as if some unknown connection had been broken.

Without losing a moment, he collected the items hidden within the hollow. At once the stone block slid forward, sliding into place with a dull clunk. It closed so quickly he had to draw his hands back fast to avoid them being crushed, The strands and ribbons immediately took on their former radiance, a course of power running all along the designs, leaving no trace of the secret they hid.

- - -

After they had claimed their prize, the champions and their captain seemed uncomfortable and searching for a reason to leave. The princess took the cue and helped them on with their clothes and furs. Her smooth skin shone bright in the failing light. The Queen sat upon her tufted throne and drank in the princess' humiliation.

When at last they were refit, they put forth many compliments and gratitudes to the princess for her efforts. Both champions still seemed a bit dazed, offering undying devotion and offers of marriage. The princess deflected them all with kind words and sweet laughter.

After they had gone, the great chieftain bowed low, extending courtesies normally reserved for women of high rank. He thanked her again and again, and even inquired as to who she might choose as consort for the night's Revel. The princess saw the Queen stiffen at his request, and disarmed him with soft answers, saying she had already chosen another. With a dejected look upon his weathered face, Lord Tyrmill took his leave of them.

When they were alone, the Queen rose from her throne, her shimmering gown slipping back down around her; she had drawn it up to get at herself while she watched the men take the princess. She drew very close to the princess, her fingertips running soft along her naked skin.

She moved in behind the princess, drawing her close to her bosom, her hands sliding across her breasts, her stomach, her thighs. Though the princess had to fight her own urge to flee, she allowed the Queen's touches on her, finding the soft fingertips most pleasing, in spite of herself.

"You performed well, my love." whispered the Queen. The princess breathed in the Queen's sweet perfume, sinking back against her mistress, letting herself be enfolded in the arms of the Queen. The Queen's hands found purchase upon her breasts, and they stood for a while, the Queen fondling her from behind with gentle caresses.

"Your master has certainly been teaching you new tricks." cooed the Queen in the princess' ear.

"Did you enjoy watching us, my mistress?" asked the princess in a husky voice. "I found it most pleasing to have your eyes upon me as they drove themselves into me" As she spoke, she felt a new pang of arousal thinking about pleasuring the men. She fought it down.

"Indeed, I did, my dear." simpered the Queen. The princess could tell by her voice that the Queen was still very excited and aroused. Her hands clasped the Queen's to her breasts, coaxing her to squeeze them, and seek out her erect nipples. "I must confess I found it very enjoyable, seeing you take their cocks... so hard, were they not? How they crammed themselves into you. I loved seeing your face, seeing your mouth swallow his thick, thick cock." continued the Queen.

"I am very happy I pleased you, my mistress." whispered the princess. She held her for a few moments more, and then a sudden change came over her. Gone was the tender touch, replaced by the hard Queen. She stepped back from the princess abruptly.

"I have much to attend to, young one." she said harshly, gesturing to the night sky. "The Rite will begin soon. Behold, the moon is almost up." She looked up at the darkening sky and the faint stars just beginning to show through.

"Go now..." she commanded the princess. "Go and bathe yourself. You stink of those barbarians. Do not come to me until you are clean." The princess did not understand from where the harsh words stemmed, but she bowed her head, gathering up her wrinkled gown.

"If you are clean in time, you may join the ladies in the courtyard and dance with us under the moon." She added as the princess turned to go. "But heed my words, girl. Choose not another for your consort in the Revel. You have been promised to me this night, and you shall serve me. Do you understand, girl?"

"Yes, my mistress." answered the princess, and the Queen left her there alone, donning her rumpled gown in the night air.

- - -

The princess made her way back to the castle alone. When she approached the keep, she saw a great throng of people had gathered all around the walls, in the fields, along the road. All had come to celebrate the Rite of High Moon, and the festivities had already begun. From all around came the sounds of singing and laughing and drinking.

The princess had a great deal of difficulty fighting her way through the great crowd which had gathered in the courtyard, At last she reached an open passage, and made her way down to her chambers.

She went straight away to her bathing chambers, and began filling the bath. As the warm water rose, she began to clean herself, to cleanse her body of the men she'd pleasured. As she sank down into the warm waters, she felt her body cry out for rest and sleep, but she dared not close her eyes for even a moment.

Outside, from high above her, the tolling of the great tower bells began to sound. She knew the Rite had begun. Normally, she would have been most eager to join in, to dance naked under the Mistress of the Moon and ask her blessings. Her new-found skills would find purchase among the teeming masses all grinding together in lust under the night sky. But tonight, she had other plans, and would not allow herself to be distracted.

She finished her bath and hurriedly dried herself, wrapping a large and very soft towel around herself, under her breasts. Dripping, her feet left wet footprints on the cold stone as she padded back into her chambers.

She stopped short, taken by surprised by the robed figure of the Inquisitor. He sat upon her bed, his hood and cowl lowered, hanging loosely about his shoulders. His long hair hung all about in loose curls, but it's dark and lustrous locks were now almost completely white. The little part of his face that show 'neath the mask looked very haggard, and his beard matched his hair, nearly all white as well.

Beside him on the bed lay a long case. It was rectangular and about the length of a man's arm, with shiny brass fittings and an intricate clasp. It was constructed of fine wood, and polished to a high shine, golden and mellow.

The princess was appalled at his condition, but she saw a momentary twinkle in his eyes as her caught sight of her bouncing breasts, resting above her towel, still sprinkled with tiny droplets of water that caught the light.

"My Lord," she said, an awkward curtsy in her wet towel.

"Good evening, princess." said He. "You must dress quickly, we have very little time." The princess went straightaway to the carved dresser and began to lay out clothes, drying herself as she went.

"They have begun the Rite, and the Revel soon will follow. Her majesty will be expecting you in her chambers; you are to be her consort, yes?" he continued.

"Yes, my Lord. I was instructed to clean myself and return to her," said she.

"And I have brought a gift for you to bring her." His voice sounded very far away.

As the princess dressed in a lovely gown, she questioned the Inquisitor. "Yes, master... but how will another of your devices help us prevail?"

"Ah..." said he with a smile. "T'is no ordinary device. T'is a weapon, my dear."



The Inquisitor Ch. 39



With a sigh and a slight groan, he began. "We have precious little time, but I shall try and explain what I can."

"As you discovered in the library of books deep below us, long ago we imprisoned a dragon in its hold 'neath the castle." 

"We?" thought the princess, but said nothing as he continued.

"That should have been the end of it, the beast would have lain slumbering for all time, had we left it alone. But alas, dear princess... greed proved an even greater monster."

"The king desired the treasure stores of the dragon, and his consort brought him a plan to get it for him. As you already know, his consort was none other than our Queen. The woman whom you loved as your maid, was the rightful Queen at the time. But her sister was jealous, and desired the throne, and the King, with all of her heart."

"As you have already seen, Belladonna, who is now Queen, had grown to be a very powerful sorceress. Under the light of the moon, she practiced her powers, and somehow found a way to touch the mind of the dragon sleeping below. At first, it was only sleeping. But she at last woke it up, and it was terribly angry to find itself trapped."

"Together, their evil minds found companions, and dragon told her of a plan. As it turned out, the dragon whom we'd imprisoned was very, very ancient. Had we left it alone, it probably would have succumbed down there in the dark, and troubled us no more." 

"But the dragon... She had other plans. All life wants to carry on, dreads the black journey into after-life. The dragon snared the King's consort, who went willingly to her destruction."

"Belladonna bewitched the King. She laid such a heavy spell upon him that his eyes beheld only her, and he granted her any whim."

"Digging was begun on a passage down, stairways leading deep into the earth... the very same which lies beyond that doorway." said He, motioning toward the door to the catacombs where she had so recently visited.

"So bewitched was the King, that he drove his workers like a mad man. What should have taken years was completed in the span of only months, at the heavy cost of many, many slaves. A passage was completed, but the chamber which held the dragon was not breached."

"Each night, Belladonna crept down the long stairs, and communed with the mind of the dragon. The two became thick as thieves, kindred spirits... damaged beyond repair."

"At last, on the night before High Moon, the wall was broken through by a single dragon's claw, and the King's consort crept inside the chamber. Once inside, she communed with the dragon face to face, and she paid her dear price."

"As I told you, the dragon... she was most ancient and near the end. So she passed to Belladonna a dark gift. I shudder now to tell the tale... she nursed from the dragon herself! O' what blasphemy!"

At this, the Inquisitor jumped up and began to pace as he continued his tale.

"She drank from her, dear princess. Drank the milk of a black dragon! The King's ancient master, Syr Va'ahl once told us how dragons had once been simple beasts, but the Last Dragon King of Old caused them to become inhabited by an evil spirit."

"That very spirit, the darkling, passed through each and every generation of dragons, growing darker and more powerful, its insatiable lust and hunger growing stronger hour by hour."

He saw the ever-deepening look of confusion on the face of the princess, and paused to explain further.

"Many cultures have myths about this dark spirit..." he continued. "But I think it's most fitting name is that of the Succubus. This is the name of the spirit that has raged within every dragon ever borne from then on, driving them for more and more gold and riches, as it was all they had ever known before the spirit took them."

"Such was true of our Queen, Belladonna. Through the milk of the dying dragon, this evil spirit inhabited her as well. Took her completely and destroyed any goodness and light which still remained in her black heart."

"Like the dragons before her, Belladonna now hungered. Not for riches or gold, but for release. Held captive by the barbarians, sex and lust and violence were all she had known, and when the spirit of the Succubus inhabited her, it was this hunger which consumed her."

"Ah" thought the princess, beginning to understand. This was why the Queen craved men and lust and desire. The Inquisitor paced back and forth, retelling the tale.

"And so, the consort Belladonna joined with the dragon. And the dragon... she had demands of her own. Too weak to claw her way from her deep prison, the dragon imparted a sacred trust to Belladonna, and demanded a sacrifice."

"As I said before, she desired the King most of all, wanted him all to herself. She was terribly jealous of Chrysanthemum, and plotted her destruction. And so it came to pass, that she convinced her sister to descend the long stairs with her, and meet the dragon face to face."

"I know not how it came to be, but your maid, Chrysanthemum, who was once Queen, went down into the darkness with her sister. Somehow, Belladonna convinced her it was the wish of the King that she join with the dragon, to nurse from it. The pair descended into the darkness... both were heavy with child then. They went down and drank from the dying dragon."

"Somehow, Chrysanthemum regained her senses, but it was too late. She had already drunk from the dragon's teat. Only but a little, but some of the darkness of the evil spirit inhabited her as well!"

"She would fight against it," He said sadly. "all the days of her life after that." 

"She turned and fled from the dragon-hold, and the dragon was most wroth. It demanded its sacrifice, and took Belladonna's child in Chrysanthemum's stead. After that, there was nothing left of the poor girl rescued from the barbarians by the king. What remained was the Queen, the Belladonna you know now."

"After the dragon took his sacrifice, it passed on to another realm, and the Queen left it there until it's bones were bleached white. There in the dragon hold, she forged a temple, using the slaves of the King. There she practiced her black arts."

"Just after escaping the dragon, the Queen delivered her son... whom you know as Prince Tarquinne."

"In a jealous rage, Belladonna cast down Queen Chrsyanthemum. She stole her son and claimed him as her own, suckling him with her poisoned milk."

"She cast her down, and lined men up to savage her. After they had their fill, she degraded her still, putting her in stocks in the center of the courtyard, so the peasants, fearing the new Queen, pummeled her with trash, wretched men abusing her body every chance they got."

"Through all of this, the King remained bewitched, and allowed it to happen. Chrysanthemum was reduced to bondage, and forced to live in servitude to her black sister. And once Queen Belladonna had assumed power, she cursed her husband, and drained him of his spirit until he lay in a state such as death."

"Just before he fell, he regained his senses and bade Chrysanthemum, the true Queen, to bring his books and scrolls and magick below to the dragon hold, and seal it."

"Then Syr'va'ahl was banished from the realm, the Queen Chrysanthemum cast down, and Belladonna assumed her throne. That was twenty and five years ago, this very night."

His voice had a hard, flinty edge.

"Which is why we must hurry if we are to undo this evil, my princess!"

"If we cannot succeed before the High Moon has gone down, we shall lose our chance for another twenty and five seasons!"

"Which..." he said at last... "brings me to this box... this weapon."

He opened the clasp and lifted the lid. The princess's eyes grew wide as she beheld the device. It was monstrous!

There on soft padded silk, lay an enormous phallus. It was made entirely of clear green glass. It was filled with some sort of liquid, which sloshed within its glass encasement.

The liquid was dark and shimmery, tiny sparkles as a new facet caught the light. It swirled about inside the device, dark shimmery liquid, interspersed with flecks of bright green.

As the princess beheld it, the Inquisitor explained.

"I have constructed this using the stone of power that hung around your dear maid's neck." He said sadly.

"The Queen tore it off when she consumed her, and I have found it... and I will turn it against her!" His voice had an evil tinge that made the princess uneasy.

"As you discovered in the books below, the old wizard made a hiding place here within the castle. In this hollow, he secreted away the very last of the terrible mineral the King discovered in his captivity in the oubliette."

"It lies there..." he said, pointing to the dark liquid within the device.

"I have made from the black mineral such a terrible poison... and combined it with the green stone of power. None on this Earth could withstand it."

"You once told me of an attack on the Queen." said He, a terrible glint in his eye. "A peasant man tried to no avail to puncture her with a blade."

"T'was then my plan hatched. Our Queen cannot be harmed, can she?"

"No my Lord." Said the princess, still looking wide-eyed at the poisoned phallus.

"Her skin..." he said. "The poor man's blade did not even scratch it?"

"No, my Lord." said She.

"Yes..." he said. "Her skin has become as dragon-scale! Though it is soft and supple to the touch, like a dragon's, it cannot be breached..."

"Save...," said He, holding up the device with a small flourish. "from the inside."

As he spoke, his eyes alighted upon the huge device, and he smiled an evil smile... and the princess immediately understood.



The Inquisitor Ch. 40



The princess hurried up from her chambers, the long chest tucked tightly under her arm. As she reached the ground level, the sounds of pleasure nearly overwhelmed her. She changed course, detouring through the deserted kitchens, through passageways and corridors, until she found herself climbing the stair within the Queen's tower.

As she passed a narrow window, she caught sight of the orgy below in the courtyard.

The Revel, in all its carnal glory, spread out below her. For a moment, her sex longed to join the teeming mass of quivering flesh, to let herself be pulled down among them, to succumb to touches and kisses and thrustings. She shook away these thoughts and hurried on.

Racing along, she reached the Queen's chambers as the High Moon came out from behind a cloud. Bright moonlight streamed in the arrowlets and window as she hurried toward the Queen's chambers.

As she entered, she found the Queen lounging upon her tremendous bed. She was again wearing the shimmery, gauzy garment which she'd worn on their first encounter. She was a vision of lust upon her great bed, devouring the princess as she entered breathless.

Up from the courtyard below, the sounds of pleasure wafted in on a slight breeze. Immediately, the princess felt her sex grow hot and anxious. Her nostrils filled with a heady, swooning scent, and she felt the irresistible pull of the Queen's desire.

"Where have you been!" snapped the Queen. "I've been lying here awaiting your arrival, listening to the lust of those wretches below forever... Maddening!" she cried.

"Come her now, and serve me, you slattern!"

The princess obeyed, loosing her gown and letting it slip from her shoulders, falling to the floor in a heap. She climbed up into the great bed, bringing the long case with her.

"What is that?" asked the Queen harshly.

"My master has fashioned you a new plaything, my mistress." said the princess, very coy and alluring.

Immediately, the Queen's ire diminished, and she fumbled at the latch to get it open.

As she did so, the princess undid the Queen's golden lacings, freeing her tremendous breasts, suckling each in turn. The milk they produced was bitter and warm, but the princess drank from them all the same.

As the Queen freed the device from its chest, she held it aloft, marveling. 

"My goodness..." she breathed. "T'is truly... large, is it not?" 

The princess agreed, and the Queen turned to her.

"Perhaps I should instruct you with it." sneered the Queen.

"Ooo... that may take a bit of getting used to, my mistress." cooed the princess.

"But pray, my Queen... allow me to pleasure you with it first. Surely you are most anxious, hearing the moans and wails of desire for so long, without satisfaction."

She knew just what words to say, and the Queen lay back, sliding off her shimmery garment, revealing her sopping wet sex.

The princess licked the head of the device with her pink tongue. She slathered it with her saliva, sliding her hands along its massive girth, making it slick and shiny. Then she planted her mouth upon the Queen, exploring her wetness with her mouth and flickering tongue. The Queen quivered with delight as the princess pleasured her with her mouth.

From below, the level of moans and wails and grunts increased. As the princess began to slide the massive device into the Queen, lascivious images of the orgy below began to drift into her mind. She knew it to be the work of the Queen, drawing power from the lust below, but she let them come.

The device proved almost too much for even the Queen, but in the end, it began to stretch inside her. As she began to fuck the Queen with the huge cock, she allowed the images of sex and lust flow over her.

Here an image of a thick cock, popping from a sloppy mouth, long strings of saliva connecting its head to her wet lips. Here a woman's ass impaled on a cock, while another woman fingered her sex mercilessly. Here a woman sucking two cocks, her mouth stretched around them as they thrusted in and out. Here a hand stroking a cock until hot seed flew from it.

The Queen squirmed and moaned as the princess skewered her with the device. At first the Queen was stretched terribly, but now she pounded down upon it, moaning and panting as it drove into her.

From below, more images of hot desire rose up. Here a man sliding into a woman as she gorged herself on another. Here a woman sucking hard on another's nipples. Here a man came on the face of the woman servicing his member. From all sides flew images of breasts, of cocks, of asses and of seed.

Inside the Queens' chambers, the princess fed the device deeper and deeper into the Queen. Impossibly deep, and deeper still, all the while, she moaned and writhed upon it as it slid further in.

"You fuck me, you whore!" cried the Queen. "Fuck me hard with it... Oh OH OHHH fill me with it!"

The princess obeyed, ramming the Queen with the huge rod. 

More images in her mind now... of Lord Tymrill, surrounded by writhing bodies, pleasured by four women, one at each of his nipples, two more fighting to see who could service his cock better, drifted through her mind. Another sight of the Champion of the Lance, driving his pole deep into a lady-in-waiting from behind, his hands buried in her hair, pulling it. Her face was turned to look at him as he pounded her, her face a mask of pure delight.

From the perimeter of the courtyard came images of the surly men of the Queen, faces angry and jealous, lying in wait for the men to be overcome, to swoop in and destroy them.

"Fuck me, whore!" cried the Queen, and the princess drove the device in further.

From outside, huge claps of thunder and lighting began to crash all about, and the princess knew the Queen was growing close. Her legs were drawn up in a great V as she held her feet wide apart as the princess slid the device in and out, in and out.

Outside, the iniquity rose to a fever pitch as the thunder and lighting crashed. Cocks driven in deep, multiple partners, women with every opening filled up with cock. Women lapped at each other as their breasts were came upon. Sperm flew like moths, into mouths, across backs, into asses and upon hard nipples.

High above, in the Queen's chambers, the air crackled with energy. The princess now made rough breathing sounds as she forced the huge device into the Queen again and again, her own fingers flying on her clit.

"Give it to me, whore! Ram me with it!" came the moaning wail of the Queen.

As a tremendous clap of thunder boomed, the Queen came upon the gargantuan device. Lighting struck the castle, sending chucks of stone and masonry into the crowd below, but the orgy continued unabated.

The Queen was racked with an earth-shaking orgasm. The device was impossibly far inside of her, she came and came and came, her walls tightening, tightening, contracting until...

With a sickening crunch, the paper-thin glass of the device gave way, slicing into the Queen from within. The deadly poison slipped its cage, and entered the Queen at every slice. Her back arched and she screamed a terrible, strangling cry. She began to convulse upon the bed as the princess backed away.

Her face was contorted in pain as she fixed the princess with a bony finger. "You... you dirty whore... what have you done to me!"

She flopped back against her silk pillow, wallowing like a fish out of water. She tried to extract the device, only slicing herself more, tearing at it, poisoning her blood further.

"Filthy... fucking ...slut... kill you for... aaiee, the burning!" gagged the writhing form that, until moments ago, had been the terrible and powerful Belladonna.

She strangled and flopped upon her bed as the poison wound its evil course. Slowly, her skin began to change.

What had once been supple and smooth began to wrinkle and gray. Her beautiful face aged a hundred years in a moment, her plump lips shriveling and drawing up, baring her teeth in a grotesque death's-head. Her lovely golden hair grew white and fell out in clumps, leaving ugly ragged patches in her scalp.

The princess could watch this horror no more, turning her face away from the terrible sight, clenching her eyes shut tight. From the bed, the pitiful wails of the Queen intensified, screams and howls and horrible wet choking gargles, before at last dying away with a hideous rattle.

- - -

From outside, the thunder died away, as did the sounds of lust. The frenzy was over, the spell broken. Without the evil command of the Queen, her surly men seemed indecisive and unsure of themselves. Even thoroughly sated, the Kinsmen of the King were quite formidable, and the surly men of the Queen decided upon retreat, leaving the naked mass of bodies to regain their senses.

The princess kept her eyes shut tight. All sound within the room dyed away, and the terrible electric crackle in the air dissipated.

When she at last opened them, she found her master, the Inquisitor, standing beside her. Again, his haggard appearance shocked her. If it was possible, his hair had grown even whiter, and his skin had taken on a frightening paleness.

"You... you have done well, princess." His voice was distant and indistinct. "Hurry, my love... there is no time to lose! The moon is nearly finished her transit of the sky!"

"Quickly, princess... the key!" he cried.

The princess approached the Queen's bed slowly. Upon it lay the ruined corpse of the evil Queen. As if a great fire had consumed it, her skin was charred black as coal. Her head craned back, standing out on bare ligaments and gobbets of flesh. 

With a trembling hand, she grasped the key which hung 'round the dead Queen's throat. She tore it free, and the Queen's head came dislodged, rolling down her burned body and bouncing off onto the floor. As it struck the stone, her skull cracked, hideous black fluid spilling from it.

Screaming, the princess dashed from the chamber, the key tightly clenched in her hand.

Down, down they raced, princess and master. They reached her chambers in moments, the princess dashing to retrieve her hidden key to the stairs from its concealment. They flung the massive door open and dashed together up the hidden stair. 

Below them, the steps led to the dragon-hold, but these led up, a path the princess had never ventured.

As they raced upward, the princess noted the small clumps of the white sand the Inquisitor constantly was leaving behind. Even now as they ran, she could see his form growing less clear.

At last, they reached the top, a short landing, leading to a massive oak door. Carved into it was the great seal of the dragon, as below in the dragon-hold.

Just near the great doorway stood a great cauldron, filled nearly to the brim with the whitest sand. It was before this the Inquisitor stopped and stood very still.

As she turned breathless, she beheld his solemn face, tiny grains of sand dripped from his hair.

"We have reached the end of our road, you and I." he said, his voice gravely. "You have completed your tasks and learned your lessons well. No longer shall you go un-named."

"From the day forward, your name shall be Laurel, beautiful and strong. You are now Queen of all this land; the realm belongs to you."

Laurel's mouth fell open and she gazed at him. Slowly, he lifted his crumbling hands to his face and removed his golden filigreed mask.

In an instant, his entire body crumbled into white sand, cascading down about her feet in a great heap. His shape fell away, melting like sands through an hourglass, leaving not even a trace of the man she had known as Master.

From the silence came whispered words. "Go now, my love. Use the key and go in unto him, while there is still time, Go now!"

"Your destiny lies within."



The Inquisitor Ch. 41



She turned the key with her heart in her throat. The gears and cogs within the ornate lock strained against the key, a stubborn attempt to bar her way. At last they resigned themselves, and the lock gave up a metallic clik. 

She pushed against the ornate carvings of the massive door, pushed her weight against it, and at last it yawned inward. It's rusty hinges let out a squeal of metal on metal, so loud and shrill she looked about in a panic, half expecting the Queen's minions to be just behind her. Only the darkened stone stairway behind her, spiraling down into darkness.

Her mind whirled as she stood before the unlocked door. In the torchlight, she steadied herself as she looked about the landing, orange light flickering on the smooth stones.

At her feet stood the brazier where he had disappeared. His shape had fallen away, a mound of clean white sand into that gilded brazier. Her master, the golem, the royal inquisitor was a man-thing made flesh by will and magick. The princess recalled the tale of the golem in the writings of the King, and understood.

The Inquisitor's final words echoed in her thoughts. 

"Your destiny lies within."

- - -

She pushed the great door open a bit further and slid inside, closing it behind her. As the door closed behind her, her torch guttered and went out, leaving her in darkness. It took many moments for her eyes to adjust to the gloom.

As she stood reigning in her fears, her eyes perceived there was indeed light in this room. From above, bright blue moonlight streamed in through cracks and holes in the wood-shingled roof.

The ceiling swept up into a spire's point high above, the undersides of the shingles creating a spiraling pattern of dark against dark. Between many of those tiles, moonlight and stars could be seen, and in several places, large chunks had fallen away, leaving ragged openings to the sky.

She stood on the outer edge of a large circular room, her hand still resting lightly upon the doorpull behind her. She realized at once this could only be the room at the peak of the dark tower, where she had once seen the strange blue light streaming forth in the night. As her eyes took in the room, she noticed that same blue light, only much softer and wan.

The light emanated from across the room, down behind some long, low uneven structure which she could not quite make out. The floor below her was bare stone, with a round rug in the room's center before her, threadbare, faded and aged from countless years of rain and wind streaming through the unattended roof of the spire.

At last, she summoned her courage and moved into the room, approaching the dark structure opposite her. As she drew closer, the bluish light grew stronger, and she understood what lay before her. There, on a low bed, loosely covered with an equally worn blanket, the skin of a black bear, lay the body of the King.

His hair was stark white, and streamed down over his shoulders, his arms folded across his chest, fingers entwined over his stomach. His beard was nearly just as long, streaming over his chest, under his arms and hands, nearly to his belt and scabbard stretched out along his side. Though shot through with greys and whites, his beard seemed somehow younger than the ivory mane of wavy locks streaming over him.

She could see he wore armour underneath all that hair, a silvery breastplate winked in the bluish light between wisps of stray hair. His thick arms were clad in light mail. In the dim light, she could barely make out they bore a reddish hue.

His eyes were closed, his face serene. She let out a gasp as she recognized the lips and nose hiding amongst the wild beard. They were the same as her master's, the Inquisitor.

Her mind reeled again as she comprehended. Here, in this forgotten chamber, the King had conjured him. A way to escape from his prison, to pass through the spell placed upon this place. With his very mind and will, he had forged a man-thing, and directed it's bidding in his stead.

She wondered about the brazier of clean, white sand on the landing outside, at last realizing her lost love Chrysanthemum must have been accomplice in the King's escape. She had brought the sand and brazier, unable to pass the enchantments and bindings laid upon the King's doorway. She had brought him what he needed, brought him the raw materials to shape himself, to walk about a free man, and plot his revenge upon the captor of his true body.

And she had paid the price for it, her evil sister draining her life away with an intimate kiss.

In the gloom of the King's chamber, the princess seethed. The taste of the wicked Queen was still upon her lips, and her smell still upon her flesh. A sly smile stretched across her lips as she recalled her enemy, the Queen, writhing upon her great bed, the life draining out of her, poisoned by lust and the magick she coveted. Crysanthemum was avenged.

A slight noise brought her attention back to the body of the King. The worn and patchy bear-skin was pulled up over his legs and feet, from his waist hung a great jeweled belt and scabbard over fendings of thick leather, studded at each pointed end with a large, round, yellow jewel, set with thick silver bands.

Again came the small noise. Low, muffled, so soft and slight the princess scarce believed she had heard anything at all. But then, there it was again.

[start italics]

Sh-thump..............shthump, shthump. 

[End italics]

She drew close to the body, laid her ear upon his chest. From within, came the unmistakable beating of a heart. The princess shrank back in stunned surprise.

He was alive! All this time, locked within this room, he was alive in there. He slept an unnatural sleep, his body clenched in a dark spell. But the King had known a way to confound the spell, though his body could not move. He had forged himself a body, and breathed his will into it from within this imprisoned slumber.

What little magick the princess knew could not scratch the deep spell in which he lay. She tried words of healing, incantations remembered from long ago, but they availed her not.

The King lay still, as if dead, but his heart beat slowly on.

The princess tried to remember all her former master had taught her, but she could think of nothing to counter the curse upon the King. What was it he had said? Something about the moon, and how little time there was to lose.

All at once she realized her dilemma. The King must be brought back before the High Moon had set, or else he would remain this way until it's next rising, twenty and five more seasons. If she could not wake him, he might remain here forever.

She moved around the bed, standing above his head, looking down at his peaceful face. She hissed in frustration as she exhausted every word of power she could remember.

All of them fell upon deaf ears.

Her desperation rose as the moon sank lower in the night sky. Already the moonlight sliding in through the chinks and cracks seemed dimmer.

She bent down and kissed his lips, his wild beard tickling her face. "I am here, my Liege." she whispered to him. "Hear me; come out from your dark slumber. Arise and open your eyes, and look upon what your magick has created."

Nothing.

But wait, his breathing seemed deeper, the thump, thump of his heart stronger, quicker. A slight movement caught her eye. From down the bed, something had slightly moved under the leather fendings and jeweled belt near his legs.

She kissed his sleeping lips again, this time deeper, harder, urgent. "Awake, my king." she whispered. "Hearken to my voice."

Still he slept on, but down below, something had awakened. To her surprise, his sex had quickened to the sound of her, to the touch of her lips to his. Though not fully aroused, there was life within it, the beating heart strengthening its hardness.

A strange smile crossed her lips as she looked along his body from her place beside his ears... over the arms and clasped hands, across the jeweled belt, down along his legs and thighs covered in downward pointed layers by his leather fending skirts. 

As she cooed into his ears, and laid soft kisses upon his face, the head of his sex peeked its way through the bucklers, growing hard and stiff and straight. 

Surely she should be repulsed by the awakened cock of a withered old man. But as she spoke to his sleeping body, it did not seem so very old. Her mind told her by the length of his hair and beard, he must have seen at least two hundred seasons. But as he continued to harden, he did not seem nearly that old, his frame seemed to strengthen, to fill out, become firmer and more muscular.

"Strange magick must be at work here." thought the princess.

She kissed his lips again, and this time, they were warm and full, and below his cock grew firm and stood straight up between the leather skirtings.

Perhaps it was the teachings of her former master, or her night in the camp of the outlanders... all at once a strange and wild idea occurred to her.

Sliding smoothly, like a cat, the princess came around the bed, kneeling alongside the raging hard cock extending up over the enchanted body.

She licked her lips, made them wet and smooth, and bent over, slowly sliding his great cock deep into her mouth. She giggled inside herself, such a notion would have never occurred to her before her lessons with her maid and master.

But here, in the darkened tower, she began to suck upon the cock of the King, drawing it deep into her mouth, her tongue sliding along it, around it, flicking across it's bulbous, throbbing girth. Her mouth was wet and made slurping noises as she swallowed his cock deeper, longer, withdrawing it as her tongue slid along it.

As her mouth wet the cock, her own sex grew wetter and wetter, hot and wet, as he grew harder and harder in her mouth and throat.

Her hand went to the cock, grasped softly around it, joining her mouth in pulsating rhythm. Up and down, into her mouth, deeper and deeper, her throat tight around its girth, sucking and releasing. As she worked him, his legs began to relax, his hips began to buck in time to her strokings. He was quickening.

As she drew his member into her mouth again and again, she was startled as his hand slowly moved to entwine itself in her dark hair.

With surprise she released his cock and looked up. His eyes were open, and he was looking down at her. She noted that his hair and beard had lost much of its white sheen, taking on shocks of dark.

The eyes that looked down upon her face were the same eyes of her former master, the eyes of the Inquisitor. 

His mouth opened and tried to speak. His voice, having been unused for so very long, was no more than a croak. 

"Good evening, my Queen." he said.

- - -

[Coming soon... Book 2... The Vengeful Prince]